About Japanese Blended Whisky

About Japanese Blended Whisky
Outside of Scotland, there may be no other country that produces as many great whiskeys as Japan. A few natives began producing whiskeys in Japan in the early 20th century, and armed with knowledge from time spent in Scotland learning their craft, blended whiskeys were born in Japan. Single malts did no come about in Japan until the late 20th century and today they are regarded as among the finest in the world.

The finest Japanese single malts are aged for a lengthy period, from 12-18 years. Styles vary from relatively light to more full-bodied with a peaty quality very much in the style of a single malt Scotch. Flavors range from honeyed cereal to brown spices, leather and tobacco. The quality is outstanding; these are meant to be sipped and enjoyed with a cigar after dinner.

Top Picks for Japanese Blended Whisky

Suntory Hibiki Japanese Harmony Blended Japanese Whisky
94 points
$100
Depth and complexity of aromas and flavors balanced with a harmonious honey sweetness throughout; perfectly demonstrating the finesse of blended Whiskies.
Kaigan Japanese Blended Whisky
91 points
$37
A Whisky redolent of citrus and spice; this is nice enough to sip but a perfect base to amplify the ginger ale in a Highball.
Suntory Toki Blended Japanese Whisky
91 points
$34
Beautiful nose that draws you in with layers of floral and fruity flavors despite the slightly elevated ABV; dare to say this is designed to make a killer High Ball?
Shin Mizunara Oak-Finished Japanese Blended Whisky
90 points
$60
A lovely bouquet of fruit, flowers, and grain on the nose with pops of spicy and oily Mizinura.