Yamazaki

Yamazaki is Japan’s oldest malt whisky distillery and a cornerstone of the country’s remarkable rise to global whisky prestige. Founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii, the visionary founder of Suntory, Yamazaki marked the beginning of Japanese whisky-making. Torii chose a site on the outskirts of Kyoto, in the lush valley where the Katsura, Uji, and Kizu rivers converge, an area famed for its soft, pure water and humid climate, ideal for ageing whisky.

The distillery’s location is steeped in history. For centuries, the region has been celebrated in Japanese poetry and tea culture for its misty landscapes and pristine springs. Torii’s decision to build here was influenced not just by water quality but also by the climate’s seasonal variation, which accelerates maturation and creates depth in the spirit.

From its inception, Yamazaki embraced both Scottish tradition and Japanese refinement. Initially, Torii enlisted the expertise of Masataka Taketsuru, later the founder of Nikka, to establish production methods rooted in Scottish pot still distillation. Over time, Yamazaki developed its own distinct style, one that blends rich malt character with an elegant, multi-layered complexity.

One of Yamazaki’s unique strengths is its variety of still shapes and sizes, far more than most distilleries worldwide. This allows for multiple spirit styles to be produced under one roof, from light and delicate to rich and robust. The distillery also uses a wide range of cask types for maturation.

Flavour-wise, Yamazaki is known for its balance of fruit, sweetness, and spice, often with a delicate floral or incense note that reflects Japanese attention to detail. A typical tasting journey might begin with aromas of red berries, honey, and sandalwood, moving to a palate of soft fruit, gentle oak, and baking spice, before finishing with long, elegant warmth.

Yamazaki has been a major force in elevating Japanese whisky’s international reputation, with expressions regularly winning top awards, including “World’s Best Single Malt” for the Yamazaki Sherry Cask 2013 at the World Whiskies Awards. Demand for Yamazaki far exceeds supply, making many age-statement bottlings highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Our Yamazaki selection showcases the distillery’s core releases alongside limited editions when available, offering both newcomers and seasoned whisky lovers a chance to experience the spirit that started Japan’s whisky story. Whether enjoyed neat in a quiet moment or shared to mark a special occasion, Yamazaki delivers the perfect blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and Japanese elegance in every glass.