Yamazaki 12 Year Review
In-Depth Review
Yamazaki is a legendary name in whisky. People speak in hushed tones about the releases that come from Suntory’s Yamazaki distillery. The fabled sherry casks, the Yamazaki 18 Year, the Mizunara casks, and more have all reached mythical status for many - and have become unattainable to most. Earlier this year Suntory announced the Yamazaki 55 year – the oldest whisky ever produced in Japan with an eye watering $27,500 retail price. But while it seems insane to drop the equivalent price of a nicely equipped Toyota Camry on a bottle of whisky, some may consider that a great deal considering that a bottle of Yamazaki 50 year recently broke the auction record for Japanese whisky. That bottle went for a final price of almost $300,000. Sadly, the Yamazaki 55 year was sold through a lottery system and was only available to Japan residents. Oh darn.
But as we have mentioned before, as Japanese whisky has grown in popularity, production has struggled to keep up. Suntory and its distilleries at Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita have not been immune to this. Age statements disappeared, allocations have dried up, and blending has become more important than ever at Suntory. But what about Yamazaki’s 12 year entry? It’s maintained its age statement and can still be found across the US. Is it worth the (sometimes ridiculous price) plunge? Let’s find out.
Age: 12 Years
ABV: 43%
Cask: Combination of sherry, ex-bourbon and mizunara oak.
MSRP: Around $120
Distillery Name: Yamazaki Distillery owned by Suntory
Review Date: 12/11/20
Color: Toasted Gold
Nose: This is a fruity whisky. Very tropical nose with lots of pineapples, coconut, vanilla, and big floral notes. Reminds me of a sweet fruit tart, with a little acidity and wisps of toasted oak. While this nose has a lot going on, it’s not big and bold. It’s a subtle nose that brings you back in to explore more.
Palate: Subtle, complex and elegant. It starts off with delicious honey and Tahitian vanilla bean. Then come more of the big juicy fruits like melon, pineapple, and more coconut. The tropical flavors come in around the midpalate and then move into beautiful wood and cocoa powder notes. Mouthfeel is good, with a richer body than something like Suntory’s Hibiki Harmony. The alcohol takes a backseat on this pour, with
Finish: Medium to long waxy finish. The burst of tropical flavors on the palate dissipate into dried fruits and a touch of baking spice that lingers on the tongue.
Final Thoughts: Many people who haven’t tried this may write this off as an overhyped 12 year whisky that benefits from the Yamazaki name and its perceived scarcity. But after trying it, you realize how incredible Japanese whisky can be. This is a beautiful pour; it’s both smooth and approachable, and yet deeply rewarding. The honey and tropical fruit make Yamazaki 12 a refreshing and delectable welcome to the core Yamazaki line. The only problem? It only gets more expensive from here.
As with many people, this was my gateway drug into the world of Japanese whiskies, and it still brings me great joy to pour. Did I wish it was more available? Yes. Is it also ridiculous to pay over $120 for a 12 year? Probably. But this is a unique whisky that I’ll always try to keep around.
