Yamazaki Smoky Batch

A Smoky Batch single malt from Yamazaki, founded by Suntory in 1923 in the humid Shimamoto valley of Osaka Prefecture where three rivers meet, Japan's first malt whisky distillery. The site runs many still shapes and recipes, and this release leans into a smokier expression of the house. It carries no age statement and is bottled for the Japanese market at 43%.

Matured in ex-Bourbon oak, with a peated or lightly smoked component giving the batch its name. Expect the vanilla and orchard fruit of the house threaded with gentle bonfire smoke and a dry, ashy edge, the wood adding a clean, light spice. At 43% it stays soft and approachable, the smoke lending savoury depth rather than weight. The finish is rounded and balanced, a quieter, smoke shaded take on the familiar Yamazaki character.