The Hakushu Aged 18 Years Peated Malt Single Malt Japanese Whisky

A masterpiece of balance and atmosphere, The Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt is a rare Japanese single malt that captures the misty forests and mountain streams surrounding the Hakushu Distillery. Nestled deep in the Southern Japanese Alps, Hakushu’s elevation and humidity yield a whisky both vibrant and serene, where peat smoke drifts lightly through layers of fruit and oak.

Matured for 18 years in a mix of American, sherry, and Japanese oak, this peated expression unfolds with remarkable precision. Aromas of green apple, ripe pear, honeycomb, and forest moss rise gently from the glass, mingling with whispers of smoke. On the palate, soft peat and malt sweetness are balanced by notes of candied citrus, toasted almond, and spiced wood. The finish lingers elegantly — earthy, herbal, and delicately smoky, fading into a cool, mountain-fresh finish.

Elegant yet robust, this whisky epitomizes Hakushu’s “forest distillery” character — subtle peat wrapped in pristine mountain air.

Nose: Green apple, honey, pear, moss, and faint campfire smoke.

Palate: Gentle peat, malt sweetness, candied citrus, toasted almond, and spiced oak.

Finish: Long and balanced — soft smoke, herbal freshness, and mountain air purity.

Pair with miso-glazed black cod or charred yakitori for harmony between sweet umami and delicate smoke. Match with aged Gruyère or Comté to amplify nutty oak notes. For dessert, try green-tea panna cotta or yuzu cheesecake to accentuate its citrus brightness.