Yamazaki, Single Malt Japanese Whisky


Yamazaki, Single Malt Japanese Whisky

Expected: Scotch Whisky. Unexpected: Japanese Whisky!


Health Warning: This post may impair your ability to drive a car, operate heavy machinery and may cause other health problems. Also, this post is for 21 years of age and older, and probably 90 years of age or younger.

While I don’t condone drinking to excess (or not often), I find that I do enjoy a good drink while out with friends. It’s hard to not fall into the familiar pattern of ordering the same drink. Our brain instinctively tells us that this (familiar) drink led to an enjoyable night and adequate next morning. Nonetheless, this week’s Find gives acknowledgement to the expected, but seeks out the unexpected in order to spice up your alcohol repertoire!

Expected: Scotch Whisky.
Unexpected: Japanese Whisky!

I like to start my evening with a little bit of whisky to take the edge off. There is nothing wrong with Macallan 18, even Johnnie Walker Black (Andy S!) or Chivas Regal (Leroy S!) will do. You might even be so lucky to score some rare (but good) Pappy Van Winkle. However, let it be known that the 2015 edition of Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible named Suntory’s Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013 the best whisky in the world — the first time the honor has gone to a whisky from Japan. The Japanese are not new to Whisky (spelled the Scottish way) as they have been manufacturing for over 100 years and actually learned their techniques from the Scots. Obviously demand has picked up significantly since the award and they are harder to come by, but every bar needs at least one. While the Sherry Cask 2013 is difficult to find, I have been trying a few and think that the 12 year variety is excellent for sipping. Next occasion you host, surprise your guests with the unexpected…some Japanese whisky!