Hakushu

Introduction:

Hakushu’s Single Malt Whisky is crafted using 100% roasted malt, resulting in a slightly smoky flavor profile with herbal undertones. The distillery offers a standard range that includes a 12 – year – old, an 18 – year – old, and a 25 – year – old Hakushu Single Malt, each showcasing different levels of maturity and complexity. Additionally, they produce a special expression called Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve, which likely features unique and carefully selected casks to offer a distinct and exclusive taste experience.

The Production:

Hakushu Whisky’s production combines a blend of traditional Japanese techniques and modern methodologies. The distillery benefits from an extensive land area of 820,000 square meters, providing ample space for their operations.

A critical aspect of the production process is the water used, as it plays a vital role in shaping the Whisky’s character. Hakushu sources its water from the nearby mountains, which offers a rich abundance of natural minerals. This water undergoes a natural filtration process and possesses a remarkably low lime content. Its exceptional quality is such that Suntory also bottles and distributes this water, which has earned a reputation for being renowned throughout Japan.

The History:

The Hakushu distillery was established in 1973, situated in the picturesque Yamanashi Mountains on Mount Kaikomagatake in Japan. It is proudly owned by Beam Suntory, a prominent company in the Japanese spirits industry.

The origins of the Hakushu distillery date back to the 1970s when Suntory recognized the increasing demand for Japanese Whisky and made the decision to establish a second distillery. The location was carefully selected in the Yamanashi Mountains due to the area’s reputation for providing clean and pure water, a crucial element for Whisky production. Since its inception, Hakushu has become an important player in the Japanese Whisky scene, offering a range of quality expressions that embody the essence of its serene and pristine mountain surroundings.

The Visitor Centre:

The Hakushu distillery boasts a visitor center that includes a Whisky museum, a shop where visitors can purchase various Whisky products, a bar to savor different Whisky expressions, and a restaurant to enjoy delicious meals. The highlight of the distillery is the viewing tower, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the beautiful countryside surrounding the distillery. Additionally, the viewing tower is also the starting point for a wilderness adventure trail, providing visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

For those interested in learning more about the distillery’s processes and history, guided tours are available, with options for English – speaking visitors. These tours can be conveniently booked online through the distillery’s website. As an added convenience, the website also features a 360° virtual tour of the Hakushu distillery, allowing visitors to explore and experience the distillery from the comfort of their own homes.

Visitor information:

Suntory Hakushu Distillery
2913-1, Torihara
Hakushu – cho
Hokuto – shi
Yamanashi
Japan
Tel: +81-551-35-2211