Hakushu 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky

Hakushu 12 Year Old is a beautifully refined Japanese single malt from Suntory’s forest distillery, nestled deep in Mt. Kaikomagatake. Crafted with pure alpine water, slow fermentation, and an array of copper pot stills, it captures the fresh, foresty elegance of its highland home. Crisp, herbaceous and gently smoky, it’s a distinctive whisky that makes a refined gift for any occasion.

Tasting Notes & Experience

A luminous champagne gold whisky with a nose of basil, pine needle and green apple. The palate reveals layers of sweet pear, mint and kiwi, balanced by herbaceous depth and a whisper of smoke. A long, elegant finish brings green tea, subtle citrus and delicate forest freshness.

Key Details

• Distillery: The Hakushu Distillery (Suntory)
• Region: Hokuto, Yamanashi, Japan
• Type: Japanese Single Malt Whisky
• ABV: 43%
• Volume: 700ml
• Serve: Neat, with a splash of water, or over a large ice block

Cocktail Pairings

Hakushu 12’s bright, herbal character makes it perfect for elevated cocktails. A chilled Japanese Highball highlights its forest freshness, while a Whisky Sour balances citrus and smoke. For sophistication, a Japanese Old Fashioned adds depth with bitters and orange peel, while the Hakushu Julep brings cooling mint to mirror its alpine notes.

Craftsmanship & Story

Founded in 1973, Hakushu was Suntory’s second great distillery, chosen for its pristine mountain forests and pure alpine water. Surrounded by the Southern Alps, its high elevation and cool climate slow maturation, creating whiskies with remarkable freshness and balance. Using wooden washbacks, multiple still shapes and careful cask selection, Hakushu embodies Suntory’s philosophy of harmony with nature.

Special Features

Always unpeated yet touched by a gentle smokiness, Hakushu 12 is matured in a range of casks to capture forest-driven flavours. Presented non-chill filtered at 43% ABV, it reflects the Japanese art of precision and patience, making it both approachable and complex.

Recognition & Accolades

Hakushu 12 has been honoured worldwide for its refined balance of forest freshness, citrus, and gentle smoke, earning acclaim from competitions and critics alike:

• Double Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 2016, 2013 & 2011
• Gold – International Spirits Challenge, 2024
• Gold – World Whiskies Awards, 2016 (Japanese Single Malt 12YO & Under)
• 1st Place – International Whisky Competition, 2015 (Best World Whisky)
• “Liquid Gold” Award – Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible
• 5/5 Stars – BBC Good Food
• Whisky of the Month – The Whisky Exchange, 2014

Such accolades affirm Hakushu 12’s standing as one of Japan’s most celebrated single malts, admired for its elegance, vibrancy, and timeless appeal.

Food Pairings

Ideal with delicate dishes such as sushi, sashimi or seared scallops, where its forest freshness lifts clean flavours. Complements grilled chicken with herbs, soba noodles with citrus broth, or light desserts like matcha panna cotta and yuzu tart.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

A refined Japanese single malt that embodies Suntory’s harmony with nature—ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, corporate gifts, or as a statement dram for your collection.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

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