Hakushu Story of the Distillery 2026 Edition
¥29,500
700 ml / 43%
A limited 2026 Hakushu release featuring Echizen washi design and Red‑flanked Bluetail artwork, expressing the distillery’s forest heritage and refined smoky style.
2 in stock
Hakushu Story of the Distillery 2026 Edition Bottling Note
The Hakushu Story of the Distillery 2026 Edition is a limited‑release single malt Japanese whisky launched on 26 May 2026 as the third instalment in Suntory’s Story of the Distillery series for Hakushu. This non‑age‑statement (NAS) bottling is presented at 43% ABV and forms part of a series designed to highlight the natural environment and history surrounding the Hakushu Distillery.
The theme of the 2026 Edition focuses on Hakushu’s unique craftsmanship, shaped by the rich forests that surround the distillery. The label and presentation box, made using Echizen washi paper, feature an illustration of the Red‑flanked Bluetail (Tarsiger cyanurus), a bird that visits the distillery’s on‑site bird sanctuary. This design reflects Hakushu’s long‑standing commitment to nature conservation, an activity Suntory has continued for more than fifty years since the distillery began operations. This release is intended not only to showcase the whisky itself but also to convey the cultural and environmental heritage of the distillery.
The defining characteristic of the whisky lies in its composition: a carefully selected blend of smoky Hakushu malt whiskies matured exclusively in bourbon barrels. Whereas the standard Hakushu NAS expression is built primarily around fruity, unpeated whiskies, the Story of the Distillery series places greater emphasis on the presence of smoky malt. However, this smokiness differs from the heavy peat found in Islay whiskies; instead, it expresses a fresh, forest‑like character with a light, brisk quality that is distinctly Hakushu in style.
The Hakushu Distillery is known for its diverse range of pot stills and its ability to produce multiple whisky styles. This technical versatility, along with the distillery’s blending expertise, is reflected in this bottling as well. Although the Story of the Distillery series has been released annually since 2024, Suntory’s official tasting notes have remained largely unchanged, suggesting a consistent flavour concept across the series. Even so, subtle variations may be perceived from year to year due to differences in maturation conditions and the blender’s adjustments.
Hakushu Story of the Distillery 2026 Edition Tasting Note
Nose: Bright citrus notes of pineapple and apple blend seamlessly with vanilla sweetness, gradually evolving into forest aromas (herbal), with subtle hints of roasted tea.
Palate: Smooth and vibrant on entry, followed by gentle honey and wasanbon sugar sweetness, fruity undertones, and delicate hints of bitterness and spice.
Finish: Ember smoke with a lingering touch of pleasant bitterness.
Overall: Light, sweet, and refreshing character of Hakushu with a well-balanced smokiness that extends into a long, enjoyable finish.
| Weight | 2 kg |
|---|---|
| Name | Hakushu Story of the Distillery 2026 Edition |
| Distillery/Brand | Hakushu Distillery / Suntory |
| Classification | Japanese Whisky |
| Style | Single Malt |
| Region | Yamanashi, Japan |
| Origin | Japan |
| Age | NAS (No Age Statement) |
| Cask Type | Ex-Bourbon |
| Volume | 700 ml |
| Alcohol | 43% ABV |
| Released | 2026 |
| Item Accessibility | Limited Edition |
Suntory, a pioneer in Japanese whisky, has built a global reputation for its exceptional spirits. Founded by Shinjiro Torii in 1899, the company has been dedicated to producing whisky that captures the essence of Japan.
Key to Suntory’s success are its distilleries: Yamazaki, known for its complex and elegant whiskies; Hakushu, producing fresh and clean spirits; and Chita, specializing in grain whisky. These distilleries, along with Suntory’s meticulous craftsmanship, have contributed to the creation of iconic brands like Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Hibiki.
Hibiki, a harmonious blend of Suntory’s finest whiskies, is celebrated for its balance and complexity. Beyond its core range, Suntory has produced a vast array of whiskies over the years, including limited editions and discontinued products.
While Suntory is renowned for its Japanese whiskies, the company also owns and operates several distilleries and brands worldwide, including those producing Scotch, American bourbon, Irish whiskey, and Canadian whisky. This global reach has solidified Suntory’s position as a major player in the international spirits industry.
From its humble beginnings to its status as a global whisky powerhouse, Suntory continues to captivate whisky enthusiasts with its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.
Discover the rich history and diverse range of Suntory whiskies in our ultimate guide.
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