Top Japanese Whiskey Brands

Japanese whiskey has gained a reputation as some of the best in the world, with many connoisseurs claiming that it can hold its own against the best Scotch whiskies. If you're a fan of Japanese whiskey or are looking to try it for the first time, there are many excellent brands to choose from. Here are a few of the top Japanese whiskey brands that you should consider trying:

  1. Suntory: Suntory is one of the largest and most well-known Japanese whiskey brands, and for good reason. The company operates three distilleries - Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita - which produce a wide range of whiskies. Some of their most popular expressions include the Yamazaki 12 Year, the Hakushu 12 Year, and the Chita Single Grain. Suntory's whiskies are known for their smooth, well-balanced flavors and are a great choice for those new to Japanese whiskey.

  2. Nikka: Nikka is another top Japanese whiskey brand, founded by Masataka Taketsuru, who is known as the "father of Japanese whiskey." The company operates two distilleries - Yoichi and Miyagikyo - which produce a range of single malt and blended whiskies. Some of their most popular expressions include the Nikka From the Barrel, the Yoichi Single Malt, and the Miyagikyo Single Malt. Nikka's whiskies are known for their bold, full-bodied flavors and are a great choice for those looking for a more complex and robust whiskey.

  3. Mars Shinshu: Mars Shinshu is a smaller, independent Japanese whiskey brand that is known for its innovative approach to production. The company operates a distillery in the Nagano prefecture, which is the highest distillery in Japan at an altitude of 725 meters. Some of their most popular expressions include the Mars Komagatake Single Malt and the Mars Iwai Tradition. Mars Shinshu's whiskies are known for their unique flavors and are a great choice for those looking for something different and off the beaten path.

  4. Chichibu: Chichibu is another smaller, independent Japanese whiskey brand that has gained a reputation for producing high-quality whiskies. The company was founded by Ichiro Akuto, who is the grandson of the founder of the Hanyu distillery. Chichibu's whiskies are known for their bold, full-bodied flavors and are a great choice for those looking for a more complex and robust whiskey.

These are just a few of the top Japanese whiskey brands that you should consider trying. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey drinker or new to the world of Japanese whiskey, these brands offer a wide range of whiskies that are sure to satisfy. So, if you want to try some of the best Japanese whiskey, these brands are definitely worth exploring.


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