Suntory Yamazaki 12 Year Whisky

Product Description

Yamazaki 12 Year: The Whisky That Started It All

Suntory Yamazaki 12 Year Whisky first came onto the market in 1984 as the first seriously marketed Japanese single malt whisky, launched from Japan's first and oldest malt distillery. Founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii in a secluded valley outside Kyoto, prized for its pure water and cool climate, Yamazaki went on to earn a major international award that helped put Japanese single malt on the global stage. Today, Yamazaki 12 Year remains one of the most sought-after whiskies in the world and has acquired something of a cult following among collectors and casual drinkers alike.

How Suntory Yamazaki 12 Year Is Made

This single malt is distilled at the Yamazaki Distillery and matured a minimum of 12 years across a combination of American oak, Spanish oak, and Japan's rare Mizunara oak casks. That blend of cask types is central to Yamazaki's identity, layering fruit-forward sweetness with the subtle spice and incense character unique to Mizunara. It's bottled at 43% ABV.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Peach, apricot, and banana, with honey, vanilla, and oak.

Palate: Plum and cherry lead the way, followed by orange and apricot, supported by woody tones, honey, cinnamon, and a hint of clove and pepper.

Finish: Wonderfully balanced, with lingering fruit and gentle spice.

Food Pairings

The peach and honey character in Yamazaki 12 Year pairs beautifully with a light fruit tart, aged Comté or Gruyère, or a vanilla-based dessert. Its cinnamon and clove notes also complement roasted nuts or a spiced pear dish.

Serving Suggestions

Yamazaki 12 Year is excellent enjoyed neat, allowing its layered fruit and Mizunara character to fully unfold, or in a highball with soda water for a lighter, more refreshing pour. A splash of water can also help open the aromatics further for neat drinkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What casks is Yamazaki 12 Year aged in? American oak, Spanish oak, and Japan's rare Mizunara oak.

What proof is this whisky? 43% ABV (86 proof).

Where is Yamazaki 12 Year made? At the Yamazaki Distillery, Japan's first and oldest malt whisky distillery, founded in 1923.

Why is Yamazaki 12 Year so highly regarded? It was the first seriously marketed Japanese single malt and won a major international award that helped establish Japanese whisky on the world stage.

Explore More

Looking for more from this legendary Japanese whisky house? Shop the full Suntory collection for Hibiki, Hakushu, and other Yamazaki expressions, or browse our complete Japanese Whiskey collection for more from Japan's top distilleries.

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