Suntory Red
640 ml / 39%
¥1,450
Suntory Red is a classic Japanese whisky with a smooth, approachable taste. Its long history and consistent quality make it a popular choice for those who enjoy a gentle, nostalgic whisky experience. While not as complex as some modern offerings, Suntory Red remains a beloved staple.
Description
Suntory Red Bottling Note
Suntory Red, introduced in 1930 as “Akafuda,” is a foundational element of Japanese whisky. Positioned as the younger sibling of “Shirofuda” (later known as Suntory White), it has evolved into a versatile, food-friendly spirit, celebrated for its consistent quality and refreshing character.
Crafted from a harmonious blend of malt and grain whiskies (grain spirits included), Suntory Red offers a smooth, mellow profile. Its sweetness, reminiscent of caramel, is balanced by subtle notes of vanilla, wood, and fruit. While approachable, it lacks the depth and complexity found in many contemporary whiskies.
This is where the dichotomy of Suntory Red lies. It’s a comforting, nostalgic drink, perfect for those seeking a simple, unpretentious whisky experience. Yet, in an era of increasingly discerning whisky drinkers, it might fall short of expectations. Its gentle character, while charming, can also be perceived as one-dimensional.
Ultimately, Suntory Red is a classic that holds a special place in the hearts of many. If you appreciate a whisky that’s easy to drink and evokes a sense of tradition, it’s worth exploring. However, those seeking a more complex and adventurous spirit might find themselves wanting.
Suntory Red Tasting Note
Nose: A gentle, inviting aroma with subtle notes of grain and caramel. There’s a faint sweetness reminiscent of honeyed apple, though it quickly subsides, leaving a predominantly soft, grainy character. A touch of oak spice emerges with time, providing a modest complexity.
Palate: The palate is soft and smooth, with a light sweetness akin to vanilla custard. The grain character from the nose carries over, forming the backbone of the flavor profile. There’s a mild, almost watery texture, with a gentle heat developing towards the mid-palate. A subtle oak influence provides a touch of dryness.
Finish: The finish is short and uncomplicated, predominantly grainy with a hint of caramel sweetness lingering. There’s a slight astringency that emerges, leaving a clean, if somewhat unremarkable, aftertaste.
Overall: Suntory Red is a gentle, approachable whisky with a focus on smoothness and drinkability. Its light, uncomplicated character makes it a versatile choice for various occasions. While it lacks the depth and complexity of many contemporary whiskies, it offers a comforting familiarity that may appeal to those seeking a relaxed drinking experience.
Product details
| Weight | 2.0 kg |
|---|---|
| Name | Suntory Red |
| Distillery/Brand | Suntory |
| Classification | Japanese Whisky |
| Style | Blended Whisky |
| Region | Japan |
| Age | NAS (No Age Statement) |
| Cask Type | Blend of various casks |
| Volume | 640 ml |
| Alcohol | 39% ABV |
| Released | First released in 1930 (as "Akafuda"), rebranded as Suntory Red later |
| Availability | Widely available in Japan |
About Suntory
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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