Hand-dipped. One at a time. Every time.
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Hakushu Distillery
Hakushu. Where Inspiration Continues.
The Hakushu Distillery was founded half a century after Yamazaki, when Keizo Saji inherited his father’s vision in his quest for innovation and constructed this second Suntory distillery in 1973.
Chosen for its distinctive natural surroundings that differ greatly from Yamazaki, Hakushu produces whiskies which are imbued with the characteristics of the distillery’s environment. Everything from the unique production processes down to the exquisite flavors of Hakushu whiskies are a result of the distillery existing in perfect harmony with its surroundings.
A Balance of Time and Nature
The exceptionally soft mountain water of Hakushu originates as clear-flowing rainwater and melted snow, which passes through Mt. Kaikomagatake of the Japanese Southern Alps and joins the Ojira and Jingu Rivers at the mountain foot. With four distinctive seasons, the clear air and cool, humid climate of Hakushu’s vast forests allow the distillery, one of the few situated at an elevation of 700 meters or more, to produce high-quality whisky through a slow, unhurried process.
Whisky Making at Hakushu
The water and environment at the Hakushu distillery is vastly different to that of the Yamazaki distillery, as is the creation process. At fermentation, artisannal craftsmen use solely wooden washbacks to encourage maturation by retaining heat in the cool air at the distillery.
A variety of pot stills and casks are carefully chosen to suit the high elevation and climate of Hakushu, ultimately producing an array of single malt whiskies with a variety of characters that reflect its surroundings.
2024 Yamazaki and Hakushu Kogei Collection
This collection is a testament to the concept of ‘kogei’, meaning ‘traditional Japanese craft’. The product of Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo’s creative craftsmanship, these single malts from the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries use peated malt and maturation in Spanish oak casks to enhance and deepen the unique flavor profile, producing a colorful spice character with smoky notes.
The spirit of kogei infuses the packaging and label design from Chiso, Kyoto’s highly renowned kimono house. Since 1555, Chiso has honored the tradition of crafting kimono, while also challenging convention. The designs are based on actual kimonos and draw inspiration from the stunning natural surroundings of both distilleries. Experience a true embodiment of craft through inspired innovation in the Kogei Collection.
Travel exclusive: available only at airport retail
An Elevated Experience
Hakushu Distillery was recently upgraded to emphasize the profound connection between the distillery’s outstanding whiskies and its pristine natural environment. The updates include a new visitor center and exhibit at the Bird Sanctuary that bring visitors closer to the distillery’s surroundings than ever before.
Visit Hakushu Distillery
Join us in-person for a newly elevated experience at the distillery inspired by Japanese nature.
Find Us or Get in Touch
For reservations and inquiries, please contact:
Information Desk: +81-551-35-2211
(Hours: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm) (Last entry 4:00pm)
Suntory Hakushu Distillery
2913-1 Torihara, Hakushu-cho, Hokuto-shi, Yamanashi Prefecture
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The Yamazaki Range
The Yamazaki Whisky is Suntory's flagship single malt whisky, from Japan’s first and oldest malt distillery. With a range of options from Yamazaki DIstiller’s Reserve to 12, 18, and 25 years old, all of these prestigious whiskies contain carefully blended components aged in American, Spanish, and Japanese Mizunara oak.
