Introduction to Japanese Whiskey
Thereโs no questioning the fact that Japanese whiskey has stormed the world spirits market. Once a speciality, loved for the complex notes that different varieties can offer, it owes the scope of its popularity to the mastery of its production. Alas, what sets Japanese whiskey apart from others, and how has this beverage earned such popularity? Now the time to think about its history, the way of production, and what makes it unique.
The History of Japanese Whiskey
The Early Beginnings
Japanese whiskey has its roots in the beginning of the twentieth century; the man who is credited for starting Japanese Whiskey brewing in Japan is named Masataka Taketsuru. When he came back, he did not only introduce technical skills but also the desire to make something new in Japan.
The Role of Suntory and Nikka
Suntory and Nikka are two of the earliest brands which entered into the business of whiskey production in Japan. Suntory a well-established company has its distillery the Yamazaki, which was the first distillery in the whole of Japan to produce whiskey, and was set up in 1923. Masataka later established Nikka in 1934, which is also considered as the back bone of the industry.
How Japanese Whiskey is Made
Inspired by Scotch, Perfected in Japan
Just like with Scotch, Japanese whiskey imitates its Scottish counterpart heavily but pauses to include Japanese ingredients, weather, etc.
Key Ingredients
- Water: Some of the Japanese distilleries the uses water sources from mountains, springs which makes the whiskey easy to handle.
- Grain: A very high quality of barley and other grains is used to derive a very superior quality of the whiskey.
Crafting the Flavor
Japanese distillers are picky as regards blending and ageing. The cask variety used is Mizunara oak, a cask found only in Japan, the cask imparts a very spicy and aromatic taste to the spirit I would like to note.
Characteristics of Japanese Whiskey
Complex Flavors
Japanese whiskey can be sweetened, smoky, and flowery, which can be good for almost any audience.
Silky Texture
Uncompressed and sometimes compared to lighter and smoother ones, Japanese whiskey, in particularly, can be eloquently enjoyed neat and or on the rocks.
Artistry in Blending
Most of the flavors in Japanese whiskey are achieved in the blending process. Each master blender is able to select different types of whiskeys to blend them together and achieve the right final product.
Famous Japanese Whiskey Brands
Suntory
- Yamazaki: Yamizaki is the best single malts provided a whisky that has has a deep and complex taste.
- Hibiki: Launched in the year 1989, Hibiki is textbook example of the art of mixing different types of malts and grains.
Nikka
- Yoichi: Yoichi is made in a distillery located at the coast of the mainland and possesses a solid peaty taste.
- Miyagikyo: This whiskey is fruitier and softer to my palate and couldnโt be further from what I get in Yoichi.
Why Japanese Whiskey is So Popular
International Recognition
Japanese whiskey ranked high following the cocktail nomination of the World Whiskies Awards. This place it firmly at the epicenter of the global spirits market and marked its aggressive growth.
Commitment to Quality
They actually make Japanese distillers some of the most perfectionist in the world, guaranteeing a perfect product in every bottle.
Unique Marketing and Packaging
The very look and the history of each bottle make Japanese whiskey a connoisseurโs delight.
How to Enjoy Japanese Whiskey
Neat or on the Rocks
Most experts recommend that the Japanese whiskey should be savored without dilution or adding a drop of water; they say the two best formations of the whiskey drink are neat Japanese whiskey and with a single ice cube.
Highballs
Japanese Whiskey is consumed in Japan in its standard form or as a component of the Japanese highball that combines the spirit with soda water. Itโs a change and enhances the hints of whiskey in the drink.
The Future of Japanese Whiskey
Expanding Distilleries
New distillery plants are being established in Japan and each brand is putting its little differential touch to it.
Sustainable Practices
Which nowadays, most of the distilleries are preferring sustainable sort of way, so the resources such as Mizunara oak will always be available.
Increased Demand
Recently, since more and more people are aware of the Japanese whiskey, limited edition and rare release is the trend.
Conclusion
That is why Japanese whiskey is the best evidence of how this country is devoted to the idea of making accurate, high-quality alcoholic beverages that are masterpieces in their uniqueness. Cynics may claim that it is all marketing, but for anyone familiar with whiskey, or willing to take their first plunge into the elixir, a glass of Japanese whiskey is history distilled into the liquid gold.