Hakushu 12 Year Old is a celebrated single malt whisky from Suntory’s mountain distillery in the Japanese Alps. This expression, bottled in its now-discontinued older packaging, was matured for 12 years in a combination of American oak and sherry casks and showcases the distillery’s signature fresh and lightly peated style.

Known for its crisp and herbal profile, Hakushu 12 strikes a perfect balance between gentle smoke, orchard fruit, and natural forest character. Bottled at 43% ABV, this version is increasingly difficult to find as newer packaging has replaced this original design—adding further value for collectors.

Hakushu Distillery

Hakushu Distillery, established in 1973 by Suntory, is located high in the Southern Japanese Alps in Yamanashi Prefecture. Often referred to as “The Forest Distillery,” Hakushu is renowned for its pristine water source, high-altitude climate, and lightly peated style that contrasts with its sister distillery, Yamazaki.

Hakushu whiskies are crafted with a wide range of still shapes and fermentation styles, allowing for a layered, complex profile that blends subtle smoke with herbal brightness. As part of the House of Suntory, Hakushu has played a significant role in Japan’s global whisky acclaim.

Hakushu 12 Year Old Tasting Notes

Nose: Fresh and herbal with subtle smoke and sweet honey.
Palate: Crisp pear, green apple, and cucumber with gentle peat. Notes of vanilla, baking spices, and toasted almonds.
Finish: Long, clean, and refreshing.

Why Add Hakushu 12 Year Old (Older Packaging) to Your Collection?

This edition comes in the original bottle and box design, which has since been replaced—making it increasingly rare on the secondary market. Hakushu 12 Year Old is a cornerstone of Japanese whisky appreciation, offering a distinct mountain freshness and balance of fruit, smoke, and herbal complexity. For collectors and enthusiasts, this older packaging release represents both historical appeal and refined craftsmanship from one of Japan’s most respected distilleries.