Yamazaki Distiller’s Reserve Review
In-Depth Review
In the world of Japanese whisky, there’s probably no name that stands taller than Yamazaki. Located in a small town just outside of Kyoto, Suntory’s crown jewel is most famous for being the birthplace of Japanese whisky. Back in 1923, Shinjirō Torii opened Yamazaki with the help of Masataka Taketsuru. Who was brought on by Torii to help bring Scottish whisky techniques to Japan. After significant disagreements forced the end of their business relationship, Taketsuru would later go on to start Torii’s greatest rival - Nikka.
And while Yamazaki has enjoyed worldwide success – it has struggled to maintain affordable options in North America. The steadily rising price of Yamazaki 12 year old to almost $200, left Yamazaki without an affordable option for everyday drinkers. To solve that gap in the market, Suntory introduced Yamazaki Distiller’s Reserve in 2014. Positioned as a lower priced, non-age stated expression, the Distiller’s Reserve is a combination of American, Spanish, Mizunara oak and French Bordeaux casks. It’s bottled at 43% ABV and promises the Yamazaki experience at a lower price point. And while it’s retail price of $99 is still relatively high – it remains a bargain in the world of Japanese single malt. So, is this worth seeking out? Let’s dive in and see if it lives up to the Yamazaki name.
Age: Non-Age Stated
ABV: 43%
Cask: Mix of American, Spanish, and Mizunara oak along with French Bordeaux casks
MSRP: $100
Distillery Name: Yamazaki Distillery
Review Date: 2/18/26
Color: Pale Gold
Nose: The nose starts with a mixture of red fruit, lavender, and fresh cut grass. Green apple, melon, and apricot appear before settling into more pineapple, and French toast. It’s delicate and approachable – similar to its older Yamazaki siblings.
Palate: The front of the palate is very soft, with tropical candies, apricot, uncooked malt, waves of French vanilla. As it reaches the back of the palate there’s a flash of salted caramel and lemon peel. The mouthfeel can lean towards thin and struggles to coat the mouth.
Finish: Short to medium length finish that features peppery oak and soft chili flakes. A gentle minerality lingers between sips, leaving a restrained and nuanced sip behind.
Final Thoughts: Yamazaki’s Distiller’s Reserve may not have the 12 year age statement of its sibling – but delivers almost all of the core Yamazaki experience at a significantly lower price point. While it’s palate and finish are less nuanced than other Yamazaki expressions, the nose provides a satisfying array of fruity, herbaceous goodness. As a single malt, the flavors are delicate and approachable – even for those who are more used to softer Japanese blends like Hibiki. And while I wouldn’t recommend spending over MSRP on this bottle, it’s a great way to explore one of Japan’s most famous single malts.
