Yamazaki 18 Years Old

Yamazaki 18 Years Old is the older expression of Suntory's flagship single malt, distilled in the valley of Shimamoto in Osaka Prefecture and bottled in 2018. Yamazaki was Japan's first malt distillery, opened in 1923, and this age statement carries the depth and sherried weight that long maturation in the soft humidity of the site tends to bring.

The whisky was matured across Oloroso sherry, Ex-Bourbon and Japanese mizunara casks, a mix that defines its character. Sherry brings dried fruit, dark chocolate and a touch of spice, the bourbon wood keeps an orchard fruit and vanilla brightness underneath, and the mizunara contributes the sandalwood and incense note that Yamazaki is known for in its older bottlings. At 43% it is rich yet measured, a study in balance over force.