First Impressions
Hakushu 12 — from Suntory's forest distillery in the Japanese Southern Alps. Built in 1973 by Keizo Saji, Suntory's second Master Blender, who searched Japan for the most pristine water to produce delicately aromatic whisky. A second stillhouse was added in 1981. Sitting at approximately 700m altitude, one of the highest whisky distilleries in the world.
The Forest Distillery
Surrounded by deep forest, the crisp mountain air and pure water directly shape the spirit's signature green, herbal character. Lightly peated. The forested mountain setting influences everything — from the yeast to the maturation. This is a distillery defined by its environment.
Tasting
Honeyed citrus nose with green apple and light woodsmoke. Sweet and creamy palate transitioning to herbal notes — mint, basil, starfruit. The finish is medium-long with candied orange and dark chocolate. Distinctively green and herbal, unlike any Scotch.
The Verdict
Hakushu 12 earns an 8 — a genuinely distinctive Japanese single malt. The green, herbal character from the forest distillery is unique in the whisky world. At £155, the price has risen significantly due to supply constraints, but the liquid justifies the reputation. Suntory's second masterpiece.
