Yamazaki Distillers Reserve is a refined, well-balanced non-age-statement single malt whisky that acts as a gateway into the Yamazaki style. It blends vibrant fruit, gentle oak influence, and touches of Japanese character (Mizunara) to deliver an elegant, approachable dram. Not overly heavy, it works well neat, lightly diluted, or in premium whisky cocktails.

Origins & Craftsmanship

• Distillery & Heritage: Yamazaki is Japans first commercial malt whisky distillery, founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii in Osaka Prefecture.

• Blend & Cask Strategy: The Distillers Reserve is a vatting of multiple malt whiskies matured in American oak, Sherry oak, Mizunara (Japanese oak), and Bordeaux wine casks.

• Age / Statement: It carries no age statement (NAS).

• ABV / Bottling: It is bottled at 43% ABV.

Tasting Profile

Element Notes & Description Color / Appearance A soft gold tone. Nose / Aroma Fresh and fruity: strawberry, cherry, light tropical notes, and the gentle spice / incense element of Mizunara oak. Palate / Taste The fruit character continues: raspberry, white peach, subtle coconut. Honeyed malt and gentle oak are present, balanced, with a touch of spice or baking notes. Finish Smooth, with sweet vanilla and a clear, clean finish, and a hint of gentle cinnamon.

Some reviewers also note a jammy, rich body with dried fruit and red berries on the palate. And others point to stewed berries, creaminess, and floral / wine cask influence.

Food & Pairing Suggestions

• Serve: Neat or with a drop of water to open complexity. Use a tulip or Glencairn glass to let aromas develop.

• Pairings:
  Soft cheeses or creamy cheeses that let the whiskys fruit character shine
  Light desserts involving berries or stone fruit (e.g. berry tart, peach cobbler)
  Mildly spiced or glazed dishes (duck breast with cherry glaze, glazed pork)
  Delicate chocolate desserts, e.g. white chocolate with berries

Quick Overview

Feature Detail Name Yamazaki Distillers Reserve Single Malt Japanese Whisky Type NAS Japanese Single Malt Cask Mix American oak, Sherry oak, Mizunara oak, Bordeaux wine casks ABV / Strength 43% ABV Character / Style Fruity, elegant, balanced with light oak & Japanese oak nuance Purpose / Use Sipping whisky, entry point into Yamazaki range