About Japanese Spirits

About Japanese Spirits
Japan has become a major player in the single malt category; as some examples are considered among the finest in the world.

Quality malt whiskey in Japan was first produced in the 1920s; today there are several distilleries that craft products based on single malt Scotch. There are numerous styles from very light to those with a heavy peaty quality. The best examples are aged from 12 to 18 years in wood barrels.

The other main spirit in Japan is shochu, a beverage made from any number of ingredients, such as barley, rice, buckwheat or even carrots. Having a clear appearance, a shochu displays a wide range of aromas such as fig, fruit cake, paprika and even marinated mushrooms. Shochu has an alcoholic percentage ranging form 25% to 45% and is served neat, on the rocks or sometimes mixed with fruit juice.

Top Picks for Japan

Tenjaku Pure Malt Japanese Whisky
91 points
$70
A shape-shifting whisky that offers a charming and delicate nose followed by a swift and assertive rush of piquant flavor on the palate.
Tenjaku Blended Japanese Whisky
91 points
$39.99
A rock solid Japanese blended whisky with nice balance; a good bridge for traditional Scotch whisky drinkers.
91 points $39.99
Hibiki Harmony Blended Japanese Whisky
91 points
$64
A delicate, understated, sherry-influenced whisky that delivers lasting complex flavor.
Haku Vodka
88 points
$27
Light alcohol sensation which is balanced with a touch of melon and presented in a very clean and polished manner.
Tenjaku Japanese Gin
88 points
$29
A polished, mellow, earthy gin that will excel in creamy gin cocktails.
Sakurao Original Japanese Dry Gin
88 points
$69
A shape-shifting gin with flavor that builds with each sip.
Suntory Toki Blended Japanese Whiskey
87 points
$34
An ethereal Japanese Blended Whisky with delicate fruit and mineral characters.
Sakurao Classic Japanese Dry Gin
87 points
$48
A rock solid gin with nice concentration of flavor and a versatile style; cocktail away!
Roku Gin
86 points
$24
Gin
A soft, easy, earthy gin for savory cocktails.
135º East Hyogo Dry Gin
86 points
$29
A mild gin with distinctive flavors; great for cool weather cocktails.