Hakushu Whisky: A Taste of Japan's Mountainous Elegance at Izakaya Juraku

Few Japanese whiskies are as well regarded as Hakushu. Distilled in the forests of the Japanese Alps, it's known for delicate smokiness, crisp minerality, and fresh herbal notes. We pour both Hakushu 12-Year and Hakushu 18-Year.

The Story Behind Hakushu Whisky

Hakushu Whisky is produced by Suntory, one of Japan's most esteemed whisky makers. The Hakushu Distillery, established in 1973, is located deep in the Japanese Southern Alps, surrounded by dense forests and fed by the pure waters of Mount Kaikomagatake. This high-altitude environment and pristine water source contribute to the whisky's signature light and fresh profile.

Unlike other Japanese whiskies, Hakushu incorporates a subtle peat influence, giving it a refined smokiness that's more delicate than heavily peated Scotch whiskies. The result is a perfectly balanced whisky with crisp fruit, herbal freshness, and a gentle smoky finish.

Hakushu Whisky Expressions at Izakaya Juraku

Hakushu 12-Year

• Flavor: fresh and herbal, with green apple, pear, mint, and light smoke
• Mouthfeel: silky and crisp, with a hint of citrus zest and pine
• Finish: clean and refreshing, with lingering smoke and malt sweetness
• Best served neat, on the rocks, or in a refreshing Hakushu Highball

Hakushu 18-Year

• Flavor: deeper and more complex, with dried fruit, honey, dark chocolate, and elegant smoke
• Mouthfeel: rich, velvety, and well-rounded with layers of oak and spice
• Finish: long and luxurious, with hints of dark fruit and smoky depth
• Best served neat or with a single ice sphere, which opens up its layers of flavor as it melts

How to Enjoy Hakushu Whisky at Izakaya Juraku

• Neat or on the rocks: sip and savor the refined complexity of Hakushu 12 and 18
• Hakushu Highball: a light and refreshing way to enjoy Hakushu 12, paired with premium soda water and a hint of lemon
• Paired with Japanese cuisine: Hakushu's crisp and smoky notes complement grilled meats, seafood, and izakaya dishes beautifully

Try Hakushu Whisky at Izakaya Juraku (121 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002), the bright, fresh 12-Year or the deeper, more complex 18-Year.

Kanpai!