The First Review: Hakushu 12 Year Old Single Malt: The Gentle One

Hakushu 12 Years Old Single Malt Whisky

Name: Hakushu Single Malt Whisky 12 Years
Distillery: Suntory Hakushu
Type: Single Malt
Alc/Vol: 43%
Capacity: 700ml

Alright! Here's goes nothing! The inaugural review. It may come as a surprise to many, but I've chosen to kick start Singaporewhisky with a review not on a Scottish whisky, but a Japanese one. Despite still being relatively unknown to most, the whisky from Japan is starting to gain popularity and praise from critics and aficionados worldwide. This particularly whisky is a Single Malt from the Hakushu distillery, one of the two distilleries owned by Suntory, the largest whisky company in Japan (who also own Scottish brands Bowmore, Auchentoshen and Glen Garioch). 

The whiskies from Hakushu are known for their light, fruity and complex notes, which is a style very unique in the world of whisky. This Hakushu 12 is no exception:

Nose: Open nose with many different aromas detectable: Fruity with plums and dried raisins, and a nice waft of caramel makes it very inviting indeed

Taste/Palate: Complex yet clean layers of flavour. The sweet fruity flavours of the plum and raisins start, followed by a hint of spiciness, then sweet flavours of the malted barley come in

Finish: Medium length of finish. Very sweet and pleasant, with a hint of woody dryness.

Overall: This whisky is a pleasant introduction to the world of Japanese whiskies. It is light, fruity and very drinkable in my opinion. Very good for sipping and enjoying after a meal.

Great for: Those who like a nice sweet, malty and fruity whisky which doesn't stinge on complexity, this one's for you. It is also great as a first whisky to people who want to know more about the drink, especially Japanese whisky.
89/100


Where to Find: La Maison Du Whisky, The Auld Alliance, Meidi-Ya Supermarket