Hakushu Japanese Forest Bittersweet Edition

Journey into the heart of Japan’s Southern Alps with Hakushu Japanese Forest Bittersweet Edition Single Malt Whisky. Released in late 2023 by Suntory’s Hakushu Distillery, nestled at 700 meters in the pristine forests of Mt. Kaikomagatake, Yamanashi, this 86-proof (43% ABV) limited-edition single malt is a tribute to Japan’s woodlands. Crafted from malts aged exclusively in Spanish oak casks, it captures a delicate balance of sweet and bitter notes, with a “sprightly complex” profile. Non-chill filtered, it reflects the distillery’s signature crisp, herbal style, shaped by pure alpine water and a verdant microclimate. Its leaf-themed tubular casing evokes the harvest season, making it a collector’s treasure.

Nose: Cloves, apricot, and prune open with fresh green leaves, yuzu citrus, and a whisper of young pine smoke. Manuka honey and floral hints add a sweet depth. It’s a vibrant, forest-like tease.

Palate: Sweetly complex, with Manuka honey, orange marmalade, and dark chocolate. Light peat smoke fuses with herbal tea, roasted chestnuts, and a bittersweet tang, offering a silky, balanced sip.

Finish: Espresso-like bitterness lingers pleasantly, with smoky oak, mocha, and a touch of gentian root, fading into a warm, refined glow.

Pair this whisky with smoked salmon—the honey notes complement the richness. Want a bite? Try aged gouda; it lifts the chocolate depth. For dessert, an orange tart echoes the palate’s citrus. Feeling bold? Grilled mackerel with a miso glaze ties the finish into a Japanese feast.