Yamazaki 18 Year Old - 70cl/43%

Distillery History:
Yamazaki was founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii at the confluence of the Katsura and Kizu rivers between Kyoto and Osaka—Japan’s first malt whisky distillery. Its style is built on diverse climate and three oak types: American oak, Spanish oak and rare Mizunara. The 18 Year Old is the house’s flagship long-aged expression and a landmark Japanese single malt on the world stage.

Whisky Introduction:
Yamazaki 18 is vatted mainly from malt aged 18 years or more in Spanish oak sherry casks, with supporting American oak and Mizunara components. Compared with the 12 Year Old, it leans into darker dried fruit and chocolate, while Mizunara adds sandalwood and oriental spice. Bottled at 43%, it shows mature depth with the restrained elegance that defines Yamazaki’s core range.

Tasting Notes:
Nosing: Raisins, apricot and café au lait, with rich dried fruit and chocolate.
Palate: Blackberry, strawberry jam and dark chocolate, balanced by honeyed sweetness and spice.
Finish: Long, spicy and smooth, with ripe fruit and gentle oak.