What is Japanese Whiskey?

The curious thing about Japanese whiskey is that it started with a Scottish influence. In 1923, Japan's first whisky distillery, Yamazaki, was founded by Shinjiro Torii, who brought in Masataka Taketsuru, a man trained in Scotland, to help craft the perfect whisky. With a focus on precision and detail, Japanese whisky has since developed its own unique style, earning respect worldwide for its smooth and refined character.

For those in Pueblo, CO, Big Bear Wine & Liquor offers a great selection of Japanese whiskies, from easy-drinking bottles to rare finds. Visit our store to shop this exquisite drink and read the blog to know what makes Japanese whisky so special and why it’s worth exploring.

Our Top Picks for Best Japanese Whiskey

Japanese whiskeys offer a wide range of flavors and price points. Here are our top selections across different categories:

Best Japanese Whiskey Under $100

Nikka Coffey Malt Japanese Whiskey

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Caramel, vanilla, tropical fruits
Flavor: Citrus, honey, oak
Finish: Long, mellow, hint of spice Best For: Those seeking a unique, smooth Japanese whiskey with a rich flavor profile

Hatozaki Small Batch

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Pear, green apple, light oak
Flavor: Cereal, nuts, subtle smoke
Finish: Clean, crisp, lingering sweetness Best For: Newcomers to Japanese whiskey looking for a balanced, approachable option

Best Japanese Whiskey to Gift

Kikori Japanese Whisky

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Floral, melon, vanilla
Flavor: Rice, light oak, subtle spice
Finish: Gentle, slightly sweet, touch of white pepper

Best For: Gifting to those who appreciate unique, lighter-style whiskeys

Matsui Kurayoshi Pure Malt Sherry Cask Japanese Whiskey

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Dark fruits, nuts, hint of chocolate
Flavor: Dried fruit, oak, subtle smoke
Finish: Long, warming, notes of sherry and spice

Best For: Gifting to whiskey enthusiasts who enjoy rich, complex flavors

Japanese Whiskey Blending Techniques

Japanese whiskey blending techniques utilize a range of barrels, flavors, and methods to create the unique profile of their whiskeys. Let’s take a look at what makes their approach so different.

1. Single-Distillery Blending

Most Japanese distilleries create blends using only their own whiskies. This approach results in distinct house styles. For example, a Hibiki blend contains only whiskies from Suntory's distilleries.

2. Diverse Production Methods

Japanese distilleries often produce a wide range of whisky styles in-house. Nikka's Miyagikyo distillery, for instance, uses both pot stills and Coffey stills, allowing for a variety of flavor profiles from a single location.

3. Complex Blending

Japanese blenders often use a large number of component whiskies. Some blends, like Hibiki 17, can contain over 100 different whiskies. This complexity allows for intricate flavor combinations and balance.

4. Consistency Focus

Japanese blenders aim to maintain consistent flavor profiles year after year, despite limited stocks. This requires careful planning and stock management.

5. Mizunara Oak Usage

Some Japanese blends incorporate whisky aged in mizunara oak, a Japanese species. This wood imparts unique flavors such as incense, coconut, and sandalwood, adding a distinctive character to the blend.

Japanese Cultural Influences on Whisky Production

Japanese cultural elements significantly shape the country's whisky production:

1. Kaizen (Continuous Improvement)

Japanese distilleries embody the kaizen philosophy, which emphasizes ongoing, incremental improvements in all aspects of production. This concept, deeply rooted in Japanese business culture, drives distillers to constantly refine their processes. For example, Suntory's distilleries might adjust fermentation times by small increments or fine-tune yeast strains over years to achieve subtle flavor improvements in their whiskies.

2. Shizen (Harmony with Nature)

The Japanese concept of shizen, or harmony with nature, influences distillery locations and water sources. Many distilleries are situated in areas renowned for their natural beauty and pure water. The Yamazaki distillery, Japan's first whisky distillery, was specifically chosen for its exceptional water quality. This water, which flows through granite rocks and is naturally filtered, contributes to the whisky's smooth character.

3. Monozukuri (Craftsmanship)

This Japanese term encompasses the spirit of craftsmanship and dedication to quality. In whisky production, it manifests as meticulous attention to detail at every stage. From carefully selecting grain varieties to precise control of distillation cuts, this approach ensures high quality across price points. Even affordable options like Nikka From The Barrel exhibit a level of refinement that reflects this commitment to craftsmanship.

4. Shun (Seasonality)

The Japanese cultural emphasis on seasonality, or shun, influences whisky maturation. Distillers in Japan pay close attention to how temperature and humidity fluctuations affect their whisky. The dramatic seasonal changes in many parts of Japan can accelerate the interaction between whisky and wood, potentially leading to more complex flavors in a shorter time compared to more stable climates.

5. Wakon-Yosai (Japanese Spirit, Western Learning)

This concept, which emerged during Japan's modernization, involves adopting foreign techniques while adapting them to Japanese sensibilities. In whisky-making, it's seen in how Japanese distillers respect Scottish traditions while innovating. The Nikka Coffey Malt is a prime example: it uses a traditional Coffey still (typically used for grain whisky) to distill 100% malted barley, creating a unique product that bridges Scottish technique with Japanese innovation.

Pairing Japanese Whiskey

Japanese whiskey's versatile flavor profiles make it an excellent companion for various foods and a star ingredient in cocktails.

Japanese Whiskey Food Pairings

Light, Floral Whiskies (e.g., Suntory Toki):

Pair with sushi or sashimi
Complement light seafood dishes like grilled sea bass
Try with fresh fruit desserts

Rich, Sherried Whiskies (e.g., Yamazaki 12):

Match with dark chocolate or cocoa-based desserts
Pair with grilled meats, especially beef
Complement aged cheeses

Peated Japanese Whiskies (e.g., Hakushu Heavily Peated):

Pair with smoked salmon or other smoked fish
Complement grilled vegetables
Try with blue cheeses

Japanese Whiskey Cocktail Recipes

Japanese Highball:

2 oz Japanese whiskey (e.g., Suntory Toki)
4-6 oz soda water
Lemon twist for garnish

Method: Fill a highball glass with ice, add whiskey, top with soda water, and stir gently. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Tokyo Sour:

2 oz Japanese whiskey (e.g., Nikka From The Barrel)
1 oz fresh lemon juice
0.5 oz simple syrup
0.5 oz egg white
Angostura bitters for garnish

Method: Dry shake all ingredients, add ice and shake again. Strain into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with a few drops of Angostura bitters.

Smoked Maple Old Fashioned:

2 oz Japanese whiskey (e.g., Hibiki Japanese Harmony)
0.25 oz maple syrup
2 dashes orange bitters
Orange peel for garnish

Method: In a mixing glass, combine whiskey, maple syrup, and bitters. Add ice and stir until chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Express orange peel over the drink and use as garnish.

How to Appreciate Japanese Whiskey

To fully enjoy Japanese whiskey, use these tasting techniques and serving suggestions:

Proper Japanese Whiskey Tasting Techniques

Visual Examination: Hold the glass up to the light and observe the whiskey's color and viscosity. Swirl the whiskey and observe the "legs" that form on the glass.
Nosing: Gently smell the whiskey. Start with your nose a few inches from the glass and gradually move closer. Try to identify different aromas.
Tasting: Take a small sip and let it coat your entire mouth. Notice the initial flavors, the development on your palate, and the finish.
Adding Water: Try adding a few drops of room temperature water to "open up" the whiskey. This can release new aromas and flavors.

Glassware and Serving Suggestions

Glassware: Use a tulip-shaped glass like a Glencairn or copita. These concentrate aromas at the rim, enhancing the nosing experience.
Temperature: Serve Japanese whiskey at room temperature (around 15-18°C or 59-64°F) to fully appreciate its flavors.
Ice: If you prefer whiskey on the rocks, use a large, clear ice cube. It melts slower, minimizing dilution.
Whiskey Stones: For slight cooling without dilution, consider using whiskey stones.
Serving Size: A standard pour is typically 30-60ml (1-2 oz), allowing for proper appreciation without overwhelming the palate.

Comparing Japanese Whiskeys

Suntory Toki

Style: Blended
ABV: 43%
Flavor Profile: Light, citrusy, hint of spice
Best For: Highballs, beginners

Nikka From The Barrel

Style: Blended
ABV: 51.4%
Flavor Profile: Rich, spicy, fruity
Best For: Sipping neat, experienced drinkers

Yamazaki 12

Style: Single Malt
ABV: 43%
Flavor Profile: Fruity, sherried, slight smoke
Best For: Special occasions, whiskey enthusiasts

Hibiki Japanese Harmony

Style: Blended
ABV: 43%
Flavor Profile: Floral, honeyed, subtle oak
Best For: Gifting, versatile sipping

Hakushu 12

Style: Single Malt
ABV: 43%
Flavor Profile: Fresh, green, light smoke
Best For: Nature lovers, Scotch fans

Nikka Coffey Grain

Style: Grain Whisky
ABV: 45%
Flavor Profile: Sweet, vanilla, bourbon-like
Best For: Bourbon drinkers, cocktails

Mars Iwai Tradition

Style: Blended
ABV: 40%
Flavor Profile: Spicy, fruity, hint of peat
Best For: Value seekers, diverse flavors

Pick Up A Bottle of Japanese Whiskey Today

Ready to shop Japanese whiskey? Look no further than Big Bear Wine & Liquor in Pueblo, CO. With our two convenient locations – Big Bear - South at 2037 S Pueblo Blvd, Pueblo, CO 81005, and Big Bear – Pueblo West at 940 Hailey Lane, Pueblo West, CO 81007 – you're never far from an exceptional selection of Japanese whiskies. Our knowledgeable staff can guide you through their curated collection, helping you find the perfect bottle to suit your taste and budget.

Can't make it to the store? Give us a call at (719) 547-1786 or visit our website at www.bigbearwine.com to explore their offerings. For personalized recommendations or to inquire about specific Japanese whiskies, don't hesitate to email brian@bigbearwine.com. Start your Japanese whisky adventure today with Big Bear Wine & Liquor – your local experts in fine spirits.