Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt – 100th Anniversary Edition

Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt – 100th Anniversary Edition Japanese Single Malt Whisky
700ml | 48% ABV | Non-Chill Filtered | Natural Color | Limited 100th Anniversary Release

A Century in the Making

The Hakushu 18 Peated Malt was created to honor 100 years of Japanese whisky—a legacy begun by Suntory founder Shinjiro Torii in 1923. Consequently, it blends heritage with innovation. Moreover, it’s the first widely released peated 18-year-old from Hakushu, making it a landmark bottling.

Forest Smoke, Mountain Freshness

Distilled at Suntory’s Hakushu Distillery—nestled in the misty forests of the Southern Japanese Alps—this whisky uses lightly peated malt. The spirit matured for 18 years in a combination of casks, likely including ex-Bourbon and American oak. In fact, the Hakushu 18 Peated Malt masterfully balances earthy smoke with Hakushu’s signature herbal and citrus brightness.

Elegant, Complex, and Deeply Balanced

Bottled at 48% ABV, this expression offers remarkable harmony. As a result, the peat never overpowers; instead, it weaves through notes of green apple, mint, and sandalwood. Additionally, the alpine climate imparts a crisp, mineral freshness that defines its terroir.

Tasting Experience

First, the nose opens with wood smoke, grapefruit zest, and pine needles, layered with vanilla, white pepper, and a hint of cucumber. Then, subtle notes of green tea and leather emerge with air.

On the palate, the texture is smooth and medium-bodied. Flavors of smoked lemon, clove, honeydew melon, and cedar unfold with precision. The alcohol feels seamless, enhancing rather than dominating.

Finally, the finish is long and refreshing—peat ash, mint, dried herbs, and a whisper of sea salt. Altogether, it’s a sophisticated and contemplative dram that redefines Japanese peat.

A Once-in-a-Century Collector’s Item

Released in limited quantities worldwide, the Hakushu 18 Peated Malt is a centerpiece for any serious Japanese whisky collection. Therefore, it holds both historical significance and long-term value. Many consider this Hakushu 18 Peated Malt the most important peated Hakushu ever bottled.

Celebrate 100 Years of Japanese Whisky

If you value historic releases like this, explore more in our [Suntory 100th Anniversary Collection]. You might also enjoy the story of [how Hakushu became Japan’s “forest distillery”].