Whiskies embodying traditional Japanese craftsmanship

The House of Suntory has released two travel retail-exclusive Japanese whiskies: Yamazaki Peated Malt Spanish Oak and Hakushu Peated Malt Spanish Oak. The two expressions are from the 2024 Kogei Collection, and aim to showcase the fusion of peated malt and Spanish oak. The word ‘kogei’ can be translated as ‘traditional Japanese craftsmanship’.

Yamazaki Peated Malt Spanish Oak offers creamy notes of dark mocha, raisins and almonds. On the palate, the whisky provides a ‘deep smooth smokiness, enhanced with rich, roasted cacao’. The long finish leads to bittersweet caramelised baking spices.

The Hakushu Peated Malt Spanish Oak limited edition blends rich floral notes of bitter orange marmalade and softly smoky dark chocolate. On the palate, the dark amber liquid offers an elegant smokiness, balanced with sweet, subtle citrus, leading to a lingering yet clean finish with gentle smoke and tartness. Both the expressions are bottled at 43 percent ABV.