{"title":"Japanese Whiskey","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJapanese whisky has become one of the most sought-after categories in spirits, with producers like Suntory and Nikka winning top awards against the best of Scotland. Wooden Cork ships premium Japanese whisky nationwide — Hibiki, Yamazaki, Hakushu, Suntory Toki, Nikka From The Barrel, Coffey Grain, Hatozaki, Kaiyo, Mars, and Akashi — with fast nationwide delivery.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eJapan’s whisky story traces its roots to 1923, when Shinjirō Torii founded the Yamazaki distillery near Kyoto. A century later, the category has redefined what whisky can be — drier, more delicate, and built on an obsessive attention to wood, water, and blending that mirrors traditional Japanese craft disciplines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSuntory Whiskies\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHibiki\u003c\/strong\u003e — Japanese Harmony, 17 Year, 21 Year, 30 Year. Japan’s definitive prestige blended whisky. \u003cstrong\u003eYamazaki\u003c\/strong\u003e — Distiller’s Reserve, 12 Year, 18 Year, 25 Year, Limited Edition releases. Suntory’s Highland-style single malt from Kyoto. \u003cstrong\u003eHakushu\u003c\/strong\u003e — Distiller’s Reserve, 12 Year, 18 Year, 25 Year. The forest single malt from the Southern Japanese Alps. \u003cstrong\u003eSuntory Toki\u003c\/strong\u003e — the everyday blend that has become one of the most poured whiskies in cocktail bars worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eNikka Whiskies\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka From The Barrel\u003c\/strong\u003e — 51.4% ABV blend, the cult favorite. \u003cstrong\u003eNikka Coffey Grain\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eCoffey Malt\u003c\/strong\u003e — distilled on the original Coffey stills brought to Japan by Masataka Taketsuru. \u003cstrong\u003eYoichi\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eMiyagikyo\u003c\/strong\u003e — Nikka’s two single malt distilleries. \u003cstrong\u003eNikka Days\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eNikka Pure Malt\u003c\/strong\u003e — accessible blends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCraft and Small-Distillery Japanese Whisky\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHatozaki\u003c\/strong\u003e — Finest, Small Batch, and Pure Malt blends from Kaikyo Distillery. \u003cstrong\u003eKaiyo\u003c\/strong\u003e — Mizunara Oak, Cask Strength, and The Single sherry-cask finishes. \u003cstrong\u003eMars Shinshu\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eMars Tsunuki\u003c\/strong\u003e — Komagatake and Iwai expressions. \u003cstrong\u003eAkashi\u003c\/strong\u003e — White Oak Distillery’s accessible single malts. \u003cstrong\u003eChichibu\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eAkkeshi\u003c\/strong\u003e — small-batch craft producers when available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese and foreign whisky\u003c\/a\u003e at Wooden Cork.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy is Japanese whisky so expensive?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJapanese whisky has experienced massive global demand growth since 2014, when Yamazaki Sherry Cask was named World Whisky of the Year. Production capacity is limited and most age-stated Japanese whisky was barreled decades ago — supply cannot expand to meet current demand. Yamazaki 12, Hakushu 12, and Hibiki 17 became particularly scarce at retail and were temporarily discontinued as a result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is the difference between Japanese whisky and Scotch?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJapanese whisky was modeled on Scotch tradition but evolved its own style: typically drier, more delicate, and more focused on subtle wood character. Japanese distilleries often run both pot stills and Coffey stills in the same facility, enabling a wider range of distillation styles. Japanese producers also use Mizunara oak — a native Japanese wood producing sandalwood and incense character — alongside American and European oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is the best Japanese whisky for beginners?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuntory Toki, Hibiki Japanese Harmony, and Nikka From The Barrel are the most accessible entry points. They show off Japan’s house style — drier and more elegant than American bourbon, more restrained than peaty Scotch. For single malts, Yamazaki Distiller’s Reserve and Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve are excellent next steps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eIs Japanese whisky always made in Japan?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs of 2021, the Japan Spirits \u0026amp; Liqueurs Makers Association established formal rules requiring whisky labeled “Japanese whisky” to be fermented, distilled, and matured in Japan for at least three years using malted grain and Japanese water. Older releases predating this rule may include imported whisky used in blending.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Why is Japanese whisky so expensive?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Massive global demand growth since 2014 collided with structural supply shortages. Age-stated Japanese whisky was barreled decades ago and supply cannot expand quickly. Yamazaki 12, Hakushu 12, and Hibiki 17 were all temporarily discontinued.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is the difference between Japanese whisky and Scotch?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Japanese whisky was modeled on Scotch but is typically drier, more delicate, and subtler in wood character. Japanese distilleries often run both pot and Coffey stills, and Mizunara oak produces sandalwood and incense character not found in Scotch.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is the best Japanese whisky for beginners?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Suntory Toki, Hibiki Japanese Harmony, and Nikka From The Barrel. Drier and more elegant than bourbon, more restrained than peaty Scotch. For single malts, Yamazaki Distiller’s Reserve and Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is Japanese whisky always made in Japan?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Since 2021 JSLMA rules require whisky labeled Japanese whisky to be fermented, distilled, and matured in Japan for at least three years. Older releases may include imported whisky used in blending.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"yamazaki-single-12-year-malt-whisky","title":"Yamazaki 12 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky 750 ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e12 years. Single Malt. Yamazaki — the entry-level aged expression from Japan’s oldest malt whisky distillery, triple-cask matured in American oak, Spanish sherry oak, and Mizunara Japanese oak to produce the layered, fruit-forward character that introduced millions of collectors to Japanese single malt.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Yamazaki Distillery was established by Shinjiro Torii in 1923 in the valley between the Katsura, Uji, and Kizu rivers near Kyoto — a location chosen for its misty, humid microclimate that produces slower, more gentle spirit maturation than the drier Scottish Highland environment. The 12 Year Old is the distillery’s benchmark expression, drawing on the three-cask maturation philosophy that is Yamazaki’s signature: American oak for vanilla and coconut, Spanish sherry oak for dried fruit and richness, and Mizunara Japanese oak for the incense, sandalwood, and coconut character unique to wood grown in Japan’s northern forests.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peach, pineapple, grapefruit, clove, candied orange\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Raspberry, cranberry, clove, vanilla, Mizunara spice\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Gentle, lingering fruit and spice\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yamazaki Distillery, Shimamoto, Osaka Prefecture, Japan (est. 1923)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e 12 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaturation:\u003c\/strong\u003e American oak, Spanish sherry oak, Mizunara Japanese oak\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 43%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/yamazaki\"\u003eYamazaki at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e or explore our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is Mizunara oak and why does it matter?\u003c\/strong\u003e Mizunara (Japanese oak) grows only in Hokkaido and takes over 200 years to reach barrel-making size. It imparts incense, sandalwood, and coconut character that has no equivalent in American or European oak — a flavor profile unique to Japanese whisky.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHow does the Yamazaki 12 Year compare to the 18 Year also in the collection?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 12 Year is fruitier and lighter — more vibrant grain and fresh fruit character. The 18 Year adds six additional years of oak integration across the same three cask types, producing deeper sherry, dried fruit, and Mizunara complexity. The 12 is the entry point; the 18 is the apex of the standard age-stated range.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is Japanese whisky limited in supply?\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese distilleries aged their stock to meet projected domestic demand in the 1980s–90s. The unexpected global boom of the 2010s depleted aged inventory faster than production could replenish it. Many expressions were discontinued entirely; those that remain carry allocation constraints.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is Mizunara oak?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Japanese oak growing only in Hokkaido, taking 200+ years to reach barrel size. Imparts incense, sandalwood, and coconut — a flavor profile unique to Japanese whisky with no equivalent in American or European oak.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How does the 12 Year compare to the 18 Year?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The 12 Year is fruitier and lighter with more vibrant grain character. The 18 Year adds 6 years of additional oak integration producing deeper sherry and Mizunara complexity.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Why is Japanese whisky limited in supply?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Distilleries aged stock for projected domestic demand in the 1980s-90s. The unexpected global boom of the 2010s depleted aged inventory faster than production could replenish. Many expressions were discontinued; those remaining carry allocation constraints.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31421826531464,"sku":"088857001616","price":209.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/00088857001616_C1N1_en-JP0827_s01.jpg?v=1679532143"},{"product_id":"hibiki-japanese-harmony-whisky","title":"Hibiki Japanese Harmony Whisky 750 ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHibiki Japanese Harmony is Suntory's flagship blended whisky — a blend of at least 10 malt and grain whiskies sourced from all three Suntory distilleries (Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita), matured in five different cask types including Mizunara Japanese oak, and assembled to represent the harmony that the name Hibiki — meaning \"echo\" or \"resonance\" in Japanese — was designed to embody.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHibiki was created in 1989 to mark Suntory's 90th anniversary and has since become Japan's most highly awarded blended whisky internationally. The NAS Harmony expression replaced the age-stated Hibiki 12 Year when allocation constraints made that expression untenable — the Harmony maintains the same multi-distillery, multi-cask philosophy but draws on a broader range of aged whiskies to compensate for the removal of the age statement. Five cask types contribute distinctly: American white oak adds vanilla and fruit; sherry casks add dark fruit richness; Plum liqueur casks are a uniquely Japanese contribution that adds a delicate Japanese plum sweetness; Mizunara adds the incense and sandalwood character unique to Japanese oak. The Chita grain whisky provides lightness and smoothness that makes Harmony one of the most approachable expressions at this quality level.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rose, lychee, and rosemary with orange peel and subtle sandalwood — the multi-cask complexity at full expression\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Candied orange peel, white chocolate, honey, and a warm Mizunara spice thread\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Subtle, long-lasting Mizunara character — the Japanese oak's incense note persisting gently\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Blended Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSources:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita distilleries\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCasks:\u003c\/strong\u003e Five types — American white oak, sherry, Plum liqueur casks, Mizunara, and others\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComponents:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10+ malt and grain whiskies\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 43% (86 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat does Hibiki mean?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eHibiki (響) means echo or resonance in Japanese — a reference to the way the different distillery and cask characters reverberate together in the final blend rather than asserting individual dominance. The name captures Suntory's blending philosophy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat are Plum liqueur casks?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eSuntory produces Umeshu (Japanese plum liqueur) using casks that are then repurposed for whisky maturation. The residual plum character in the cask imparts a delicate Japanese plum sweetness to the whisky — a cask type unique to Suntory and not found in Scotch or Irish whisky production.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What does Hibiki mean?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Hibiki (響) means echo or resonance in Japanese — a reference to the way different distillery and cask characters reverberate together in the final blend rather than asserting individual dominance.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What are Plum liqueur casks?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Suntory produces Umeshu (Japanese plum liqueur) using casks that are repurposed for whisky maturation. The residual plum character imparts a delicate Japanese plum sweetness — a cask type unique to Suntory, not found in Scotch or Irish whisky.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31421826924680,"sku":"080686934059","price":79.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/00080686934059_C1N1_en-JP0127_s01.jpg?v=1679516641"},{"product_id":"suntory-whisky-toki","title":"Toki Japanese Whisky 750 ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuntory Whisky Toki is a blended Japanese whisky designed for accessibility and cocktail versatility — built on two primary pillars, Hakushu American white oak malt whisky and Chita heavy-type grain whisky, with supporting components from Yamazaki and the lighter Chita grain, producing a light, slightly sweet and subtly spicy whisky that works as well in a Highball as it does neat.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eToki (時) means \"time\" in Japanese — a reference to both the patience of Japanese whisky production and Suntory's heritage stretching back to 1923. Developed by fourth Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo, Toki rethinks the conventional relationship between malt and grain whisky: instead of treating grain as background support for the malt, Toki elevates Chita heavy-type grain whisky and Hakushu's fresh, herbal malt as co-equal pillars, with Yamazaki providing additional fruit and depth as a secondary component. The result is a softer, more grain-forward blended whisky than the multi-distillery Hibiki expressions — lighter in body, more approachable in price, and designed specifically for the Highball format that is Japan's dominant whisky serving style.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Honeydew melon, green apple, and basil with the fresh herbal character of Hakushu malt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smooth and light — the Chita grain and Hakushu malt in balance, with mild honey sweetness and subtle herbal notes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Slightly spicy and short — a clean ginger note from the Hakushu component closing cleanly\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChief Blender:\u003c\/strong\u003e Shinji Fukuyo (fourth Chief Blender)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blended Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSources:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hakushu, Chita, and Yamazaki distilleries\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePillars:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hakushu American white oak malt + Chita heavy-type grain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 43% (86 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat is Toki best used for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Japanese Highball — Toki over ice with chilled soda water, served in a tall glass. The light, herbal, and slightly sweet character makes it one of the best-suited Japanese whiskies for the Highball format, which is the dominant way whisky is consumed in Japan. It also works neat for those who prefer lighter, more delicate blended whisky.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is Toki best used for?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The Japanese Highball — Toki over ice with chilled soda water in a tall glass. The light, herbal, slightly sweet character makes it one of the best-suited Japanese whiskies for the Highball format. Also works neat for those who prefer lighter blended whisky.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31421827022984,"sku":"080686957010","price":54.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/00080686957010_C1N1_en-JP0527_s01.jpg?v=1679532143"},{"product_id":"mars-whisky-iwai","title":"Mars Whisky Iwai","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMars Whisky Iwai is a blended Japanese whisky from Mars Shinshu — Japan's highest distillery, in Nagano Prefecture — with a smooth, sweet, and fruity character.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMars Shinshu sits at 800 meters in Miyata village, nestled between Japan's northern and southern Alps, and has produced whisky since 1985. Iwai is its approachable blended expression, leading with sweet, fruity notes of pear and quince for a smooth, easy-drinking character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is versatile neat, on the rocks, or in a highball or whisky cocktail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sweet fruit with pear and quince.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smooth and fruity — well-balanced and easy-drinking.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clean and gentle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mars Shinshu, Miyata, Nagano, Japan (est. 1985)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blended Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse more \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Iwai made?\u003c\/strong\u003e At Mars Shinshu, Japan's highest distillery, at 800 meters in Nagano Prefecture.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does it taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Smooth, sweet, and fruity with notes of pear and quince.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHow do you serve it?\u003c\/strong\u003e Neat, on the rocks, or in a highball or whisky cocktail.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Where is Iwai made?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"At Mars Shinshu, Japan's highest distillery, at 800 meters in Nagano Prefecture.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What does it taste like?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Smooth, sweet, and fruity with notes of pear and quince.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How do you serve it?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Neat, on the rocks, or in a highball or whisky cocktail.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Mars Shinshu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31421827055752,"sku":"mars-whisky-iwai","price":29.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Iwai-Mars.jpg?v=1699066937"},{"product_id":"nikka-coffey-grain-whisky","title":"Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Coffey Grain Whisky is a single grain Japanese whisky distilled mainly from corn in Nikka's original Coffey stills at Miyagikyo — the traditional continuous still design invented by Aeneas Coffey in 1831, imported from Scotland by Nikka in 1963, and capable of producing a distillate with far more flavor complexity and textural richness than the modern column stills most grain whisky producers use.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGrain whisky is typically a background player in blended whisky — lighter and more neutral than malt, its role is to provide smoothness and body without asserting its own character. Nikka's Coffey Grain turns that premise on its head: bottled as a single grain whisky at 45% ABV with no malt whisky blended in, it demonstrates what the Coffey still produces when given the spotlight — exotic tropical fruit, rich vanilla and caramel, and a silky, full-textured mouthfeel that the Coffey still's specific distillation dynamics create. An essential component of Nikka's house blends, released here in its pure single grain form for those curious about what sits underneath.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tropical fruit, rich vanilla, caramel, and coconut — the Coffey still's fruity character at full expression\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Exotic and silky — tropical fruit, vanilla sweetness, and a creamy, full-textured body that the Coffey still specifically produces\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long, smooth, and richly fruity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Miyagikyo Distillery, Nikka Whisky, Sendai, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Grain Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Coffey still (continuous still, traditional design 1831)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrain:\u003c\/strong\u003e Primarily corn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45% (90 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat is a Coffey still and why does it matter?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eA Coffey still is a traditional continuous still design patented by Aeneas Coffey in 1831 — one of the first practical column stills. Unlike modern high-efficiency column stills that strip nearly all flavor compounds, the Coffey still retains more of the grain's natural character, producing a distillate with more complexity, texture, and fruit character. Nikka imported original Coffey stills from Scotland in 1963 specifically because they produce a different, richer result than the column stills typically used for grain whisky.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is a Coffey still?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A traditional continuous still design patented by Aeneas Coffey in 1831. Unlike modern high-efficiency column stills, the Coffey still retains more grain character, producing a distillate with more complexity, texture, and tropical fruit character. Nikka imported original Coffey stills from Scotland in 1963.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31421827154056,"sku":"4904230033578","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Nikka-Coffey-Grain.jpg?v=1699066983"},{"product_id":"nikka-whisky-from-the-barrel","title":"Nikka Whisky From The Barrel","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Whisky From The Barrel is a blended Japanese whisky bottled at 51.4% ABV directly from the cask with minimal filtration — one of the most distinctive expressions in the Nikka range. A blend of over 100 malt and grain whiskies from Nikka’s Miyagikyo and Yoichi distilleries, married in small casks after blending to allow the components to integrate.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 51.4% ABV bottling strength is central to the character: most blended whisky is reduced to 40–43% before bottling. At barrel strength, From The Barrel preserves the full concentrated flavor and the natural mouthfeel that dilution would reduce. The small cask re-maturation after blending — a relatively rare step in blended whisky production — allows the component whiskies to marry and develop integrated complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich malt, dried fruit, caramel, and vanilla. \u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full-bodied and concentrated — raisins, chocolate, spice, and oak. \u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long, warming, and complex.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nikka Whisky, Japan (Miyagikyo + Yoichi distilleries) — \u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese blended whisky — \u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 51.4% — \u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 500ml\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky\u003c\/a\u003e at Wooden Cork.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31421828333704,"sku":"4904230049739","price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Nikka-Whisky-from-the-Barrel.jpg?v=1699066984"},{"product_id":"nikka-taketsuru-pure-malt-whisky","title":"Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Taketsuru Pure Malt is a vatted malt — a combination of single malt whiskies from both Nikka distilleries, Yoichi in Hokkaido and Miyagikyo in Sendai, married in a combination of sherry butts, bourbon barrels, and new American oak to produce a whisky that balances the peated, coal-fired character of Yoichi with the lighter, fruitier character of Miyagikyo into a gentle, harmonious whole.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNamed after Masataka Taketsuru — the founder of Nikka and the father of Japanese whisky — the Pure Malt is an expression of his belief that the interplay between Nikka's two distilleries, with their deliberately contrasting production styles, produces a complexity that neither distillery alone can achieve. Yoichi's directness and smoke provide structure and depth; Miyagikyo's elegance and fruit provide lightness and finesse. The three-cask maturation in sherry butts, bourbon barrels, and new American oak adds the dried fruit sweetness, vanilla, and warm spice that complete the expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dried fruit, vanilla, honey, and a hint of smoke — the two distilleries in balance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smooth and gently complex — malt, fruit, subtle oak, and the lightest touch of peat from the Yoichi component\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long, gentle, and slightly sweet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nikka Whisky, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pure Malt (Vatted Malt) Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistilleries:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoichi (Hokkaido) + Miyagikyo (Sendai)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCasks:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sherry butts, bourbon barrels, and new American oak\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 43% (86 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat is a pure malt whisky?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eA pure malt (also called vatted malt) is a blend of single malt whiskies from different distilleries — no grain whisky is included. Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt blends only malt whisky from Yoichi and Miyagikyo. Unlike standard blended whisky, there is no grain whisky component to lighten the body.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is a pure malt whisky?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A pure malt (vatted malt) is a blend of single malt whiskies from different distilleries — no grain whisky included. Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt combines only malt whisky from Yoichi and Miyagikyo, matured in sherry butts, bourbon barrels, and new American oak.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31421829021832,"sku":"4904230064688","price":80.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/files\/7298c1a3ed71aa744576b.png?v=1726084592"},{"product_id":"nikka-coffey-vodka","title":"Nikka Coffey Vodka","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Coffey Vodka is distilled from corn and malted barley in Nikka's original Coffey stills at the Miyagikyo Distillery near Sendai — the same traditional continuous stills imported from Scotland in 1963 that produce the Coffey Grain and Coffey Malt whiskies, applied here to vodka production with results that demonstrate exactly why the Coffey still produces a fundamentally different spirit than modern column distillation.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe secret of Nikka Coffey Vodka is the still itself. Modern high-efficiency column stills are designed to strip as much flavor as possible, producing a neutral, clean spirit. The Coffey still, being an older and less efficient design, retains more of the grain's natural character — producing a vodka with a distinctly richer, more textured mouthfeel and a subtle complexity that neutral-grain vodkas cannot achieve. The corn provides natural sweetness; the malted barley adds a subtle complexity. The result is a vodka that holds up in cocktails as well as any premium spirit and rewards sipping neat in a way most vodkas do not.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Subtle grain sweetness and a gentle vanilla note from the corn and Coffey still combination\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Balanced and smooth with a notably rich, creamy texture — the Coffey still's characteristic mouthfeel distinguishing it from standard column-still vodkas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clean, smooth, and lingering\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Miyagikyo Distillery, Nikka Whisky, Sendai, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Vodka — Coffey still distilled\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrain:\u003c\/strong\u003e Corn and malted barley\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Coffey still (original stills imported from Scotland 1963)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 40% (80 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhy use a Coffey still for vodka?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eMost vodka producers use modern high-efficiency column stills designed to strip flavor and produce the most neutral possible spirit. Nikka's Coffey still is a traditional 1831 design that retains more grain character, producing a vodka with a richer, more textured mouthfeel and subtle complexity that efficient column distillation eliminates. It is a deliberate choice to produce a more characterful vodka rather than a more neutral one.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Why use a Coffey still for vodka?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Nikka's traditional 1831 Coffey still retains more grain character than modern high-efficiency column stills. The result is a vodka with a richer, more textured mouthfeel and subtle complexity — a deliberate choice to produce a more characterful vodka.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31421861331080,"sku":"4904230049302","price":34.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Nikka-Coffey.jpg?v=1699066984"},{"product_id":"ichiros-malt-grain-japanese-whiskey","title":"Ichiro's Malt \u0026 Grain Japanese Whiskey","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIchiro's Malt \u0026amp; Grain is a Japanese blended whisky from the acclaimed Chichibu distillery — aromas of peach, dried apricot, sweet butterscotch, and citrus zest, with toffee, gingerbread, tropical fruit, black pepper, and cut hay on the palate.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrafted by Ichiro Akuto's Chichibu, one of Japan's most respected modern distilleries, this malt-and-grain blend finishes at medium length with vanilla and dried tropical fruit. Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peach, dried apricot, butterscotch, citrus zest\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Toffee, gingerbread, tropical fruit, black pepper, cut hay\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium — vanilla and dried tropical fruit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Chichibu, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Blended Whisky (malt \u0026amp; grain)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse more \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chichibu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31515958411400,"sku":"703558800657","price":99.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/IchirosGold.jpg?v=1699066830"},{"product_id":"the-hakushu-12-year-old","title":"Hakushu 12 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky 750 ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e12 years. Single Malt. Hakushu — the entry-level aged expression from Suntory's mountain forest distillery in the Japanese Alps, presenting a distinctly different character from Yamazaki through the inclusion of a peated malt component and the distillery's unique highland spring water source.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Hakushu Distillery was established in 1973 in the Southern Alps of Yamanashi Prefecture, at 700 meters elevation in one of Japan's most pristine forest environments. The location was chosen specifically for its ultra-soft alpine spring water — one of the purest distilling water sources in the world — and the cool, damp forest microclimate that produces slower, more delicate maturation than lowland Japanese distilleries.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile Yamazaki is defined by fruit, sherry, and Mizunara complexity, Hakushu is defined by freshness — green apple, mint, cucumber, and the light herbaceous smoke of the peated malt component that distinguishes it from any other major Japanese single malt. The 12 Year captures this character at the most accessible age statement in the Hakushu lineup.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Green apple, fresh mint, white peach, light smoke, cucumber\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Herbal freshness, gentle peat smoke, lime zest, vanilla, soft oak\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clean, refreshing, lingering light smoke\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hakushu Distillery, Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan (est. 1973)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e 12 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eElevation:\u003c\/strong\u003e 700 meters in the Southern Japanese Alps\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 43.5%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Hakushu differ from Yamazaki?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yamazaki is the richer, fruitier, more sherry-influenced expression — warm and complex. Hakushu is the fresh, herbal, lightly peated counterpart — cooler and more delicate. They share the same producer but represent opposite poles of the Suntory single malt flavor spectrum.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDoes Hakushu 12 contain peated malt?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — a portion of peated malt whisky is included in the 12 Year blend, contributing the light smoke and herbaceous character that distinguishes Hakushu from non-peated Japanese single malts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is Hakushu harder to find than Yamazaki?\u003c\/strong\u003e Hakushu is produced in smaller quantities than Yamazaki and received less global marketing attention during the Japanese whisky boom. Allocation constraints are similar but awareness is lower, making it slightly more available in some markets.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How does Hakushu differ from Yamazaki?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yamazaki is richer, fruitier, and more sherry-influenced. Hakushu is fresh, herbal, and lightly peated — opposite poles of the Suntory single malt flavor spectrum.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Does Hakushu 12 contain peated malt?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes — a portion of peated malt is included, contributing the light smoke and herbaceous character that distinguishes Hakushu from non-peated Japanese single malts.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Why is Hakushu harder to find than Yamazaki?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Produced in smaller quantities with less global marketing during the Japanese whisky boom. Allocation constraints are similar to Yamazaki but lower awareness makes it slightly more available in some markets.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32284442001544,"sku":"088857001814","price":189.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/00088857001814_C1N1_en-JP0827_s01.jpg?v=1679516640"},{"product_id":"the-yamazaki-18-year-old-single-malt-whisky","title":"Yamazaki 18 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJapan's oldest whisky distillery. 18 years in American, Spanish, and Mizunara oak. The benchmark of single malt Japanese whisky.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Yamazaki Distillery was established by Suntory founder Shinjiro Torii in 1923 — making it the birthplace of Japanese single malt whisky. Located in the valley between Kyoto and Osaka where the Katsura, Uji, and Kizu rivers converge, the site was chosen for its exceptional water quality and humid microclimate. Almost exactly 100 years later, Yamazaki 18 Year remains one of the most awarded and sought-after single malts produced anywhere in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 18 Year is matured across three distinct cask types — American oak for sweetness and vanilla, Spanish (sherry) oak for dried fruit and richness, and Mizunara Japanese oak for its signature incense and sandalwood character. The extended maturation integrates these three voices into a whisky of exceptional depth and consistency. It is the expression that most clearly demonstrates what makes Yamazaki — and Japanese single malt in general — different from Scotch or Irish whisky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAppearance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep amber with a resinous, slightly oily viscosity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich and multi-layered — zesty citrus peel, plum, dark chocolate, and a prominent Mizunara incense note. Sherry cask influence gives dried fruit and warmth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full-bodied with exceptional integration. Orchard fruit, dark cherry, caramel, subtle smoke, and the Mizunara sandalwood thread weaving through the centre.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and complex — spice, incense, and a warm oak fade that evolves for several minutes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCategory:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single Malt Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yamazaki, Shimamoto, Osaka, Japan (est. 1923)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCasks:\u003c\/strong\u003e American oak, Spanish sherry oak, Mizunara oak\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eExplore the full \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/yamazaki\"\u003eYamazaki collection\u003c\/a\u003e or browse all \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is Yamazaki 18 Year so hard to find?\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory's aged expressions are in high global demand and production is constrained by the 18-year maturation requirement. The distillery cannot rapidly increase output — every bottle available today was committed to a barrel nearly two decades ago. Allocation is strictly controlled.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Yamazaki 18 compare to Yamazaki 12?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 12 Year is Yamazaki's most accessible expression and an excellent introduction to the distillery's style. The 18 Year adds six additional years across all three cask types, producing significantly greater complexity, integration, and Mizunara character. It is a meaningful and noticeable step up.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhat makes Japanese single malt different from Scotch?\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese single malt follows Scottish production methods but diverges in cask selection — particularly the use of Mizunara oak, which has no equivalent in Scotch whisky production. The climate at Yamazaki (more humid and with greater seasonal variation than Scotland) also accelerates maturation and produces a different interaction with the barrel.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIs Yamazaki 18 Year a good gift?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — it is one of the most universally recognized names in premium whisky globally, presents beautifully, and is genuinely rare. For recipients who appreciate whisky at any level, it is immediately understood as an exceptional choice.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Why is Yamazaki 18 Year so hard to find?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Suntory's aged expressions are in high global demand and production is constrained by the 18-year maturation requirement. The distillery cannot rapidly increase output \\u2014 every bottle available today was committed to a barrel nearly two decades ago.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How does Yamazaki 18 compare to Yamazaki 12?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"The 12 Year is Yamazaki's most accessible expression. The 18 Year adds six additional years across all three cask types, producing significantly greater complexity, integration, and Mizunara character. It is a meaningful and noticeable step up.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What makes Japanese single malt different from Scotch?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Japanese single malt follows Scottish production methods but diverges in cask selection \\u2014 particularly the use of Mizunara oak, which has no equivalent in Scotch whisky production. The climate at Yamazaki also accelerates maturation and produces a different interaction with the barrel.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Is Yamazaki 18 Year a good gift?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Yes \\u2014 it is one of the most universally recognized names in premium whisky globally, presents beautifully, and is genuinely rare. For recipients who appreciate whisky at any level, it is immediately understood as an exceptional choice.\"\n      }\n    }\n  ]\n}\n\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32475699380360,"sku":"088857001623","price":979.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/00088857001623_C1N1_en-JP0827_s01.jpg?v=1679532143"},{"product_id":"ichiros-malt-chichibu-the-us-edition-2019-single-malt-whiskey","title":"Ichiro's Malt Chichibu The US Edition 2019 Single Malt Whiskey","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIchiro’s Malt Chichibu The US Edition 2019 is a single malt whisky from Ichiro Akuto’s Chichibu Distillery in Saitama Prefecture, Japan — distilled specifically to meet the flavor preferences of the American market. Chichibu is Japan’s smallest active distillery, founded in 2008 by Ichiro Akuto after rescuing rare casks from his family’s closed Hanyu Distillery. The 2019 US Edition is peated and aged in a combination of bourbon barrels and port pipes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChichibu produces among the most sought-after Japanese whisky released each year. The distillery’s tiny scale — annual production is a fraction of Suntory or Nikka — means every bottling is limited. The US Edition was designed with American bourbon drinkers in mind: the bourbon barrel maturation provides vanilla and caramel character familiar to bourbon drinkers, while the peating and port pipe finishing add complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Vanilla, light peat smoke, red fruit from port, and malt. \u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Caramel, dried fruit, gentle smoke, and American oak spice. \u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium-long with smoke and vanilla.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture, Japan (founded 2008) — \u003cstrong\u003eEdition:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2019 US Edition — \u003cstrong\u003eCasks:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bourbon barrels and port pipes — \u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peated Japanese single malt — \u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 700ml\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky\u003c\/a\u003e at Wooden Cork.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chichibu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32660314357896,"sku":"ichiros-malt-chichibu-the-us-edition-2019-single-malt-whiskey","price":999.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Ichiro_s_Malt_Chichibu_The_US_2019_Edition_Japanese_Cask_Strength_Single_Malt_Whiskey.png?v=1685195191"},{"product_id":"hibiki-12-years-old","title":"Hibiki 12 Years Old","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA discontinued Suntory blend — grain from Chita, malt from Yamazaki, and a distinctive component matured in plum liqueur casks. Increasingly rare and no longer in production.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHibiki 12 Year was discontinued by Suntory in 2015 due to stock constraints — the same aging inventory pressure that later led to the discontinuation of the 17 Year in 2018. As a result, remaining bottles are entirely dependent on legacy retailer stock and are not being replenished. For collectors of the Hibiki range, the 12 Year is now the hardest of the three age-stated expressions to find.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe defining characteristic of the 12 Year was its use of whisky matured in plum liqueur casks alongside the standard Chita grain and Yamazaki malt components. The plum casks — a distinctly Japanese approach with no equivalent in Scotch or American whisky production — contributed a subtle sweetness and stone fruit complexity that made the 12 Year more approachable and distinctive than a standard young blend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAppearance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pale golden amber, lighter than the older Hibiki expressions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Honey, dried fruit, plum, and a gentle herbal note. Fresh and inviting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smooth and elegant — honey, dried fruit, soft oak, and a hint of plum from the unique cask component. Well-balanced for its age.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium-length and satisfying — honey and light spice fading into a clean close.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCategory:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blended Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory (Yamazaki, Chita)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e 12 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStatus:\u003c\/strong\u003e Discontinued (2015)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eExplore the full \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/hibiki\"\u003eHibiki collection\u003c\/a\u003e or browse all \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhy was Hibiki 12 Year discontinued?\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory discontinued the 12 Year in 2015 due to aging inventory constraints — global demand for Japanese whisky outpaced the available stock of 12-year-old spirit. The same pressure later led to the discontinuation of the 17 Year in 2018. Neither will return to regular production.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhat made the Hibiki 12 Year distinctive?\u003c\/strong\u003e Beyond the standard Chita grain and Yamazaki malt components, the 12 Year included whisky matured in plum liqueur casks — a Japanese finishing technique with no equivalent in Western whisky production, contributing a subtle stone fruit sweetness to the blend.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Hibiki 12 compare to Hibiki Japanese Harmony?\u003c\/strong\u003e Harmony was introduced as a replacement when the 12 Year was discontinued. It is a no-age-statement blend designed to continue the accessible end of the Hibiki range. The 12 Year is generally considered more complex due to the age statement and plum cask component.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIs Hibiki 12 Year a good collector's bottle?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — discontinued Japanese whisky expressions with age statements have consistently appreciated as remaining stock depletes. The 12 Year is now only available through specialty retailers with legacy inventory.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Why was Hibiki 12 Year discontinued?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Suntory discontinued the 12 Year in 2015 due to aging inventory constraints. Global demand for Japanese whisky outpaced available stock of 12-year-old spirit. It will not return to regular production.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What made the Hibiki 12 Year distinctive?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Beyond standard grain and malt components, the 12 Year included whisky matured in plum liqueur casks — a Japanese finishing technique contributing subtle stone fruit sweetness with no equivalent in Western whisky production.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How does Hibiki 12 compare to Hibiki Japanese Harmony?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Harmony was introduced as a no-age-statement replacement when the 12 Year was discontinued. The 12 Year is generally considered more complex due to the age statement and plum cask component.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Is Hibiki 12 Year a good collector's bottle?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Yes — discontinued Japanese whisky with age statements have consistently appreciated as remaining stock depletes. The 12 Year is now only available through specialty retailers with legacy inventory.\"\n      }\n    }\n  ]\n}\n\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33024320307336,"sku":"7121059737500","price":699.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Hibiki-12-Year-Old-Japanese-Whisky.png?v=1699066820"},{"product_id":"hibiki-17-years-old","title":"Hibiki 17 Years Old","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiscontinued in 2018. Gold Editor's Choice, Whisky Magazine. World Whisky Award winner. One of the most celebrated blended whiskies ever produced — and one you can no longer buy new.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHibiki 17 Year was discontinued by Suntory in 2018 — the same inventory pressure that had already claimed the 12 Year in 2015. Global demand for Japanese whisky exceeded the available stock of 17-year-old spirit, and rather than compromise the blend, Suntory stopped producing it. The 17 Year will not be returning to regular production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDuring its production run, Hibiki 17 was the most acclaimed expression in the range — winning a Gold Editor's Choice from Whisky Magazine and the top prize at the World Whisky Awards 2010. It was the benchmark for what blended Japanese whisky could achieve: spicy, sophisticated, and genuinely complex in a way that blind tasters routinely mistook for something far older and more expensive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFinding a bottle today requires a specialty retailer with legacy stock. This is one of those acquisitions that becomes meaningfully harder every year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAppearance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Warm amber with golden highlights.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich with honey, dried fruit, floral notes, and a warm spice. More complex and structured than the 12 Year.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Spicy and sophisticated — a harmonious blend of aged malt and grain whiskies with layers of dried fruit, caramel, and a distinctive Japanese oak character.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and warm — spice and dried fruit fading into a clean, elegant close.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCategory:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blended Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory (Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e 17 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStatus:\u003c\/strong\u003e Discontinued (2018)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eExplore the full \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/hibiki\"\u003eHibiki collection\u003c\/a\u003e or browse all \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhy was Hibiki 17 discontinued?\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory discontinued the 17 Year in 2018 because global demand for Japanese whisky outpaced the available inventory of 17-year-old spirit. Whisky production cannot be rapidly scaled — every bottle in existence today was committed to a barrel 17 years before it was needed. The expression will not return to regular production.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Hibiki 17 compare to Hibiki 21?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 17 Year is spicier, more vibrant, and less Mizunara-influenced than the 21 Year. The 21 Year adds four additional years and more pronounced Mizunara oak character, producing a deeper, more complex, and more incense-forward profile. Both are exceptional; the 17 Year's discontinuation makes it the more urgent acquisition.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIs Hibiki 17 better than Japanese Harmony?\u003c\/strong\u003e Hibiki Japanese Harmony was introduced as a no-age-statement replacement. The 17 Year is generally considered more complex and structured due to the age statement and extended maturation. For drinkers who know both, the 17 Year is the preferred expression.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWill Hibiki 17 ever come back?\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory has not indicated any plans to reintroduce the 17 Year. The inventory constraint that drove the discontinuation has not been resolved. Existing bottles are the total remaining supply.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Why was Hibiki 17 discontinued?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Suntory discontinued the 17 Year in 2018 because global demand outpaced available inventory of 17-year-old spirit. The expression will not return to regular production.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How does Hibiki 17 compare to Hibiki 21?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"The 17 Year is spicier and more vibrant. The 21 Year adds four years and more pronounced Mizunara oak character. Both are exceptional; the 17 Year's discontinuation makes it the more urgent acquisition.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Is Hibiki 17 better than Japanese Harmony?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a no-age-statement replacement. The 17 Year is generally considered more complex and structured. For drinkers who know both, the 17 Year is the preferred expression.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Will Hibiki 17 ever come back?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Suntory has not indicated plans to reintroduce the 17 Year. The inventory constraint that drove the discontinuation has not been resolved. Existing bottles are the total remaining supply.\"\n      }\n    }\n  ]\n}\n\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33024320340104,"sku":"4901777025141","price":899.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Hibiki-17-Year-Old-Japanese-Whisky.png?v=1699066817"},{"product_id":"hibiki-21-years-old","title":"Hibiki 21 Years Old","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e21 years. Mizunara oak. Bronze amber. The most complex expression in the Hibiki lineup and one of the most celebrated blended whiskies ever produced.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHibiki is Suntory's blended whisky range — the counterpart to Yamazaki and Hakushu single malts. The 21 Year draws from aged malt whiskies from Yamazaki and Hakushu and grain whisky from Chita, all matured separately and blended to a standard that has earned it multiple World Whisky of the Year designations. The defining characteristic is Mizunara oak — a rare Japanese oak species that imparts a distinctive incense, sandalwood, and spice character found nowhere else in the whisky world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 21 years, the components have developed a depth and integration that makes this more than a blended whisky in the conventional sense. It is a statement of what Japanese whisky craftsmanship looks like at its most refined — complex enough to hold the attention of experienced drinkers, balanced enough to reward those encountering it for the first time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAppearance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bronze amber with extraordinary clarity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sandalwood, honeycomb, caramelized nuts, ripe banana, and rich sherry spice. The Mizunara incense note is distinctive and unmistakable.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cooked fruit, dried apricot, dark cherry, caramel, and baking spice, with the Mizunara oak weaving through as a structural thread.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and structured — incense, smoke, and a lingering warmth that evolves for several minutes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Mizunara Oak Difference\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMizunara (Quercus mongolica) is a Japanese oak species so porous and structurally challenging that it was initially considered unusable for barrel-making. Suntory persisted and discovered that Mizunara imparts a flavor profile found nowhere in European or American oak — incense, sandalwood, coconut, and a distinctive spice that has become one of the most sought-after characteristics in premium Japanese whisky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCategory:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blended Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory (Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e 21 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCasks:\u003c\/strong\u003e American oak, Spanish oak, Mizunara oak\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eExplore the full \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/hibiki\"\u003eHibiki collection\u003c\/a\u003e or browse all \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is Mizunara oak and why does it matter?\u003c\/strong\u003e Mizunara is a rare Japanese oak species that imparts a highly distinctive incense, sandalwood, and coconut character to whisky. It is notoriously difficult to work with — the wood is porous and warps easily — making Mizunara-matured whisky genuinely scarce and prized by collectors worldwide.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Hibiki 21 compare to Hibiki 17?\u003c\/strong\u003e Hibiki 17 was discontinued in 2018 due to stock constraints, making existing bottles rare. The 21 Year remains in limited production and represents a significant step up in age and complexity — more Mizunara influence, greater integration, and a longer finish.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIs Hibiki 21 a single malt or a blend?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is a blended whisky — a combination of malt whiskies from Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries and grain whisky from Chita. In the context of Japanese whisky, Hibiki's blended expressions are considered prestige products rather than compromises, reflecting Suntory's expertise in marrying different components.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHow should I serve Hibiki 21 Year?\u003c\/strong\u003e Neat, at room temperature, in a wide tulip glass. A single drop of water after the first nosing can open the Mizunara character further. Hibiki 21 is not a cocktail ingredient — it deserves unhurried attention.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What is Mizunara oak and why does it matter?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Mizunara is a rare Japanese oak species that imparts a highly distinctive incense, sandalwood, and coconut character to whisky. It is notoriously difficult to work with, making Mizunara-matured whisky genuinely scarce and prized by collectors worldwide.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How does Hibiki 21 compare to Hibiki 17?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Hibiki 17 was discontinued in 2018 due to stock constraints, making existing bottles rare. The 21 Year remains in limited production and represents a significant step up in age and complexity \\u2014 more Mizunara influence, greater integration, and a longer finish.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Is Hibiki 21 a single malt or a blend?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"It is a blended whisky \\u2014 a combination of malt whiskies from Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries and grain whisky from Chita. In the context of Japanese whisky, Hibiki's blended expressions are considered prestige products rather than compromises.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How should I serve Hibiki 21 Year?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Neat, at room temperature, in a wide tulip glass. A single drop of water after the first nosing can open the Mizunara character further. Hibiki 21 is not a cocktail ingredient \\u2014 it deserves unhurried attention.\"\n      }\n    }\n  ]\n}\n\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33024320372872,"sku":"088857001739","price":1099.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Hibiki-21-Year-Old-Japanese-Whisky.png?v=1699066818"},{"product_id":"hibiki-japanese-harmony-limited-edition","title":"Hibiki Japanese Harmony Limited Edition","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHibiki Japanese Harmony Limited Edition is a commemorative release marking the 30th anniversary of the Suntory Hibiki brand — the same five-cask Harmony blend presented in a bottle adorned with the tabane-noshi, a traditional Japanese symbol of celebration inspired by kimono patterns.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe tabane-noshi is a pattern of bundled noshi — dried abalone strips historically given as gifts to symbolize good fortune — a symbol of auspiciousness in Japanese culture for centuries. Suntory commissioned the design for the Hibiki 30th anniversary, applying the kimono-pattern aesthetic to the iconic 24-faceted Hibiki bottle that represents the 24 seasons of the traditional Japanese calendar. The whisky is identical to standard Hibiki Harmony: at least 10 malt and grain whiskies from Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita, matured in five cask types including Mizunara Japanese oak and plum liqueur casks.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rose, lychee, and rosemary — the Hibiki Harmony aromatic signature\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Honey, candied orange peel, white chocolate, and warm Mizunara spice\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and subtly Japanese — the Mizunara oak's incense note persisting cleanly\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Blended Whisky, Limited Edition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOccasion:\u003c\/strong\u003e 30th anniversary of the Hibiki brand\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBottle design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tabane-noshi — traditional kimono celebration pattern\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBlend:\u003c\/strong\u003e Same as Hibiki Harmony — 10+ whiskies, five cask types, Yamazaki\/Hakushu\/Chita\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 43% (86 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is the tabane-noshi pattern?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A traditional Japanese symbol of celebration and shared happiness — bundles of noshi (dried abalone strips historically used as gifts) in a pattern that has graced precious gifts since ancient times. Derived from kimono patterns and applied to the Hibiki 30th anniversary bottle.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is the whisky different from standard Hibiki Harmony?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"No — the Limited Edition contains the same Hibiki Harmony blend. The distinction is the commemorative tabane-noshi bottle design for the 30th anniversary of the Hibiki brand.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33971782418568,"sku":"080686934141","price":1199.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/HibikiJapaneseHarmonyLimitedEdition.png?v=1685195086"},{"product_id":"mars-shinshu-komagatake-single-malt-japanese-whisky-limited-edition","title":"Mars Shinshu Komagatake Single Malt Japanese Whisky Limited Edition","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMars Shinshu Komagatake Single Malt Limited Edition is the first step toward a house style for Mars Shinshu's Komagatake line — a young (3–6 year) Japanese single malt drawn from top-shelf rackhouse barrels (majority ex-bourbon, plus new American oak and sherry cask), lightly peated at 3.5 PPM.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sweet orange marmalade, apricot, gentle vanilla, melon, soft oak — clean, smooth, and refreshing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mars Shinshu, Nagano, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt (Komagatake Limited Edition)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCasks:\u003c\/strong\u003e Majority ex-bourbon, new American oak, sherry; 3.5 PPM\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse more \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese \u0026amp; world whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mars Shinshu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":35274523967637,"sku":"mars-shinshu-komagatake-single-malt-japanese-whisky-limited-edition","price":349.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/MarsKomagateGreen.jpg?v=1685196142"},{"product_id":"akashi-sommelier-series-pinot-noir-wine-cask-finish-single-malt-whisky","title":"Akashi Sommelier Series Pinot Noir Wine Cask Finish Single Malt Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAkashi Sommelier Series Pinot Noir Wine Cask Finish is the second release from the Tokiwa Imports Sommelier Series — a four-year-old Eigashima single malt initially aged in ex-bourbon barrels, then finished 18 months in two Pinot Noir casks from a Lompoc, California winery, curated by Master Sommelier Kenneth Fredickson. Only 500 bottles.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Malt nuanced by red fruits and floral notes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich, with a long finish, soft edges, baking spice, and leather\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Eigashima (Akashi), Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt, Pinot Noir cask finish (Sommelier Series)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18 months in Sirugue French oak Pinot Noir casks; 500 bottles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse more \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese \u0026amp; world whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Akashi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":35322037600405,"sku":"4969265766150","price":299.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/389467a3c48bf5ea0b0dbf6c9f439d6dfcce0ce7_1024x1024_39b2b3fe-ed37-487c-9afa-63012125b4bb.jpg?v=1685191961"},{"product_id":"nikka-coffey-miyagikyo-single-malt-whisky","title":"Nikka Coffey Miyagikyo Single Malt Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Miyagikyo Single Malt Whisky is the lighter, more elegant counterpart to Yoichi in Nikka's distillery portfolio — produced at the Miyagikyo Distillery near Sendai using pot stills heated by indirect steam at a lower temperature than most distilleries, creating a softer, more delicate spirit with elegant fruitiness and a distinctive Sherry cask influence that defines the Miyagikyo house style.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMiyagikyo was built by Masataka Taketsuru in 1969 as a deliberate contrast to Yoichi — where Yoichi uses direct coal-fired distillation for a heavy, peated character, Miyagikyo uses indirect steam heating at low temperature to produce a lighter, more refined new make spirit. The pot stills' specific shape and the temperature-controlled distillation produce the elegant fruitiness and floral character that Miyagikyo is known for. The Sherry cask influence adds a layer of dried fruit sweetness and spice that complements rather than overwhelms the distillery's delicate character. Miyagikyo Single Malt is what Taketsuru envisioned as the softer, more approachable face of Japanese malt whisky.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Elegant and floral — light fruit, Sherry-influenced dried fruit, and a gentle sweetness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Soft and fruity with the Sherry cask's contribution in harmony with the distillery's light, refined character — less smoke, more fruit than Yoichi\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clean and gently sweet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Miyagikyo Distillery, Nikka Whisky, Sendai, Japan (est. 1969)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pot still, indirect steam heating at low temperature\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCasks:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sherry cask influence\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45% (90 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eHow does Miyagikyo differ from Yoichi?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eYoichi uses direct coal-fired distillation, producing a heavier, peated, and more robust spirit with strong smoke and maritime character. Miyagikyo uses indirect steam heating at low temperature, producing a lighter, more elegant, fruitier spirit. The contrast between the two distilleries is deliberately maintained so that Nikka can create complex blends with range — Yoichi provides structure and smoke; Miyagikyo provides fruit and finesse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How does Miyagikyo differ from Yoichi?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yoichi uses direct coal-fired distillation — heavier, peated, robust. Miyagikyo uses indirect steam heating at low temperature — lighter, elegant, fruity. The deliberate contrast between the two distilleries gives Nikka a full range of character for blending.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":35457487536277,"sku":"4904230044581","price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/ScreenShot2020-07-29at3.34.23PM.png?v=1685197029"},{"product_id":"nikka-coffey-gin","title":"Nikka Coffey Gin","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Coffey Gin achieves its complexity through the perfect balance of 11 selected botanicals and the distinctive silky texture of Nikka's Coffey still distillates — combining the traditional gin botanical framework of juniper, angelica, coriander, and citrus peels with four uniquely Japanese citrus varieties and a touch of Sansho pepper that makes it one of the most distinctively Japanese gins produced.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe four Japanese citrus varieties — Yuzu, Kabosu, Amanatsu, and Shequasar — are the defining element of Nikka Coffey Gin. Each contributes a different citrus profile: Yuzu's aromatic complexity, Kabosu's tangy tartness, Amanatsu's sweet-bitter grapefruit quality, and Shequasar's bright lime-like sharpness. Together they create a bright, zesty aroma that is distinctly Japanese while remaining within the recognizable gin framework. The touch of apples — a fruit central to Nikka's history, since apple products kept the company solvent while the first whiskies were maturing — adds a gentle sweetness. The Japanese Sansho pepper on the finish provides a pleasantly tangy, lip-tingling heat different from the black pepper of European gins. All of this runs through the Coffey still's distinctive distillation, producing the silky, texturally rich base that distinguishes Nikka's spirits.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eBotanicals\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJuniper berries, angelica, coriander seeds, lemon peel, orange peel (traditional gin framework)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYuzu, Kabosu, Amanatsu, Shequasar (four Japanese citrus varieties)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApple (Nikka heritage botanical)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJapanese Sansho pepper (finish)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Miyagikyo Distillery, Nikka Whisky, Sendai, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Gin — Coffey still distilled\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBotanicals:\u003c\/strong\u003e 11 total\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 47% (94 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/gin\"\u003egin at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat makes Nikka Coffey Gin Japanese?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe four Japanese citrus botanicals — Yuzu, Kabosu, Amanatsu, and Shequasar — replace or augment the standard European citrus used in most gins, giving Coffey Gin a distinctive Japanese citrus profile. The Japanese Sansho pepper on the finish adds a uniquely Asian spice note. The apple botanical is a direct reference to Nikka's own heritage — apples were central to keeping the company viable before their first whiskies were ready.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What makes Nikka Coffey Gin Japanese?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Four Japanese citrus botanicals (Yuzu, Kabosu, Amanatsu, Shequasar), Japanese Sansho pepper, and the apple that references Nikka's history — combined in a Coffey still distillate that produces a silky, texturally rich base. A distinctly Japanese gin that stays within the recognizable gin framework.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":35457896579221,"sku":"14904230049293","price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/nikka_coffey_gin_1__43054.1519140651.jpg?v=1699066984"},{"product_id":"nikka-coffey-malt-whiskey","title":"Nikka Coffey Malt Whiskey","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Coffey Malt Whisky is a unique expression that sits at the intersection of malt and grain whisky categories — made from 100% malted barley (like a single malt) but distilled in Nikka's Coffey continuous still rather than a pot still, which technically classifies it as grain whisky under industry regulations despite the all-malt grain bill, producing rich maltiness and silky texture that no standard grain whisky achieves.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDeveloped in 2013 as part of Nikka's ongoing experiments with what their Coffey still can produce, Coffey Malt explores the question of what happens when you run malted barley through a continuous still rather than a pot still. The answer is a spirit that has the grain-richness and sweetness that malted barley provides — but with the lighter, more textured character of Coffey still distillation rather than the heavier, oilier result of pot still distillation. Matured in old casks to enhance the rich maltiness and complexity without adding excessive new wood character, the result is silky-textured and complex in a way that defies its grain whisky classification. Old cask maturation preserves the Coffey Malt spirit character rather than transforming it into something more conventional.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich maltiness, sweet grain, and the distinctive Coffey still complexity — more approachable than pot still malt whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Silky and textured — rich malt character with a complexity that the Coffey still's specific distillation dynamics produce from malted barley\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and richly malty with lingering grain sweetness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Miyagikyo Distillery, Nikka Whisky, Sendai, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Grain Whisky (100% malted barley, Coffey still)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrain:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100% malted barley\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Coffey still (technically grain whisky classification)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCasks:\u003c\/strong\u003e Old casks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45% (90 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhy is Coffey Malt classified as grain whisky if it uses 100% malted barley?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eIndustry classification of whisky as malt or grain is based on the still type, not the grain bill. Malt whisky must be distilled in a pot still. Coffey Malt uses 100% malted barley but is distilled in a Coffey continuous still — so it is classified as grain whisky despite using the same grain as single malt whisky. The resulting spirit is fundamentally different in character from pot still single malt, demonstrating how dramatically the still type affects the final spirit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Why is Coffey Malt classified as grain whisky?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Classification as malt or grain whisky is based on still type, not grain bill. Malt whisky must be pot still distilled. Coffey Malt uses 100% malted barley but in a Coffey continuous still — so it's technically grain whisky. The still type produces fundamentally different character despite the identical grain bill.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":35525939396757,"sku":"4904230044987","price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/image_f07373e1-ea49-4af8-b619-57905ebdfe9f.jpg?v=1699066984"},{"product_id":"ichiros-malt-chichibu-the-us-edition-2020-single-malt-whiskey","title":"Ichiros Malt Chichibu The US Edition 2020 Single Malt Whiskey","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIchiro's Malt Chichibu The US Edition 2020 is a limited single malt from Japan's acclaimed Chichibu Distillery, founded by Ichiro Akuto — a US-exclusive release prized by Japanese whisky collectors for the distillery's small-scale, hands-on production.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Chichibu (Ichiro's Malt), Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRelease:\u003c\/strong\u003e The US Edition 2020 (limited)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse more \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese \u0026amp; world whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chichibu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":35979204984981,"sku":"Ichiros-Malt-Chichibu-The-US-Edition-2020-Single-Malt-Whiskey","price":499.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/publicViewAttachment.png?v=1685195195"},{"product_id":"hatozaki-finest-japanese-whisky","title":"Hatozaki Finest Japanese Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHatozaki Finest is a premium blended Japanese whisky aged up to 12 years, with a minimum 40% malt whisky content — light in style with a rich malt backbone, cereal notes, and a light sweetness that suit both highballs and straight pours.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBrand:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hatozaki (Kaikyo Distillery, Japan)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blended Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 12 years; min. 40% malt content\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse more \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese \u0026amp; world whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Hatozaki","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":36034126774421,"sku":"hatozaki-finest-japanese-whisky","price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Hatozaki-Blended-US-Bottle-2.png?v=1685194994"},{"product_id":"hatozaki-small-batch-whisky","title":"Hatozaki Small Batch Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHatozaki Small Batch is a vatting of 100% malt whiskies aged in imported bourbon casks, imported sherry casks, and native Mizunara oak barrels — a rich profile of sweet cereal and malty dried fruit with a light touch of smoke and honey on the finish.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sweet cereal, malty dried fruit; light smoke and honey finish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBrand:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hatozaki (Kaikyo Distillery, Japan)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blended Malt Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCasks:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bourbon, sherry, native Mizunara oak\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse more \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese \u0026amp; world whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Hatozaki","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":36034139357333,"sku":"S 080368800801","price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Hatozaki-Small-Batch-Bottle-and-Box-2-copy-1.png?v=1685195021"},{"product_id":"nikka-gold-gold-samurai","title":"Nikka Gold \u0026 Gold Samurai","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Gold \u0026amp; Gold Samurai is a premium blended Japanese whisky originally produced exclusively for the Japanese duty free market — a superb expression from Nikka's Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries presented with a distinctive samurai bust decoration that makes it one of the most visually distinctive bottles in the Nikka range and a collector-interest expression outside Japan.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNikka Whisky Distilling Co. was founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru — the father of Japanese whisky, who had trained in Scotland and returned to Japan with the knowledge to build a domestic whisky industry. The company operates two Japanese whisky distilleries: Yoichi in Hokkaido (established 1934), built to replicate the maritime, peated character of Scottish distilling, and Miyagikyo in Sendai (established 1969), built as a lighter, more elegant counterpart. Nikka also owns Ben Nevis Distillery in Scotland (acquired 1989). Gold \u0026amp; Gold Samurai draws on this dual distillery heritage in a premium blended format developed specifically for the international travel retail market, giving it an appeal as both a genuine collector's expression and a premium gift beyond standard Japanese whisky retail.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nikka Whisky Distilling Co., Tokyo, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Blended Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistilleries:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoichi (Hokkaido, est. 1934) and Miyagikyo (Sendai, est. 1969)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e Originally Japanese duty free exclusive\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePresentation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Samurai bust bottle decoration\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Why was Nikka Gold and Gold Samurai duty free exclusive?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Japanese whisky producers historically developed premium expressions specifically for the international duty free market — high-quality, visually distinctive bottles that would attract travelers at airports. Gold and Gold Samurai was one such expression, originally unavailable in domestic Japanese retail or standard international markets.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":36914086871189,"sku":"4904230300953","price":399.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/o0og3YHD4gZ4KHeNSFaVD8D7TO-E86Tg9wxYazpudedFc18iWrFYvYMWtTkYOoiQj-s2vaIjID-CRGvG2_3CI19dV_jLnkNnp03l92Ph9yH4MbLWWZfQ4OcE0yhBQ72uDbazUv4YZxhbJ48.jpg?v=1699066984"},{"product_id":"hibiki-21-year-old-mount-fuji-limited-edition-blended-whisky","title":"Hibiki 21 Year Old Mount Fuji Limited Edition Blended Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe same Hibiki 21 Year liquid — Mizunara oak, Yamazaki and Hakushu malt, World Whisky of the Year — in a bottle designed to honor Mount Fuji's 2013 UNESCO World Cultural Heritage designation.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHibiki 21 Year is Suntory's most acclaimed blended whisky: aged malt whiskies from Yamazaki and Hakushu combined with Chita grain whisky, matured in American oak, Spanish oak, and rare Mizunara Japanese oak, producing a whisky of extraordinary complexity recognized by multiple World Whisky of the Year designations. The liquid inside this bottle is identical to the standard Hibiki 21 Year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat distinguishes the Mount Fuji Limited Edition is the bottle itself. Released by Suntory to commemorate Mount Fuji's addition to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List in 2013, the bottle features a hand-painted image of Fuji by Japanese artist Tsuguharu Foujita, with 24 facets representing the 24 seasons of the traditional Japanese lunar calendar — the same 24-facet design that distinguishes all Hibiki bottlings, here elevated for this commemorative purpose. It is a collector's presentation that adds visual and cultural significance to an already exceptional whisky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAppearance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bronze amber with extraordinary clarity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sandalwood, honeycomb, caramelized nuts, ripe banana, and rich sherry spice — the Mizunara incense note is unmistakable.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cooked fruit, dried apricot, dark cherry, caramel, and baking spice, with Mizunara oak weaving through as a structural thread.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and structured — incense, smoke, and a lingering warmth that evolves for several minutes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Bottle\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 24-facet design of Hibiki bottles represents the 24 micro-seasons (sekki) of the traditional Japanese lunar calendar. The Mount Fuji edition features a painting of Fuji by Tsuguharu Foujita, a French-Japanese painter known for his incorporation of traditional Japanese ink techniques into Western-style painting. Each facet catches the light differently, making the bottle as much an object of beauty as a vessel for the whisky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCategory:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blended Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory (Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e 21 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCasks:\u003c\/strong\u003e American oak, Spanish oak, Mizunara oak\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRelease:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mount Fuji UNESCO Heritage Commemorative Edition (Kacho)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eExplore the full \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/hibiki\"\u003eHibiki collection\u003c\/a\u003e or browse all \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIs the Mount Fuji Edition the same whisky as the standard Hibiki 21 Year?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the liquid is identical. The distinction is entirely in the bottle design — the 24-facet structure, the Fuji painting, and the commemorative packaging that celebrates Mount Fuji's UNESCO recognition.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhy was Mount Fuji added to UNESCO's World Cultural Heritage List?\u003c\/strong\u003e Mount Fuji was inscribed in 2013 not primarily as a natural heritage site but as a cultural one — recognized for its influence on Japanese art, literature, and religious practice over centuries. The UNESCO designation acknowledges Fuji's role in shaping Japanese cultural identity, which is what Suntory chose to commemorate with this edition.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is Mizunara oak and why is it significant?\u003c\/strong\u003e Mizunara is a rare Japanese oak species that imparts incense, sandalwood, and coconut notes found nowhere in American or European oak production. It takes 200 years to mature to barrel size, making it genuinely scarce. The Mizunara influence in Hibiki 21 Year is one of its most prized characteristics.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIs this a good collector's bottle?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the combination of the Hibiki 21 Year liquid (a benchmark Japanese whisky), the UNESCO commemorative context, and the limited edition presentation make it a compelling collector's piece for Japanese whisky enthusiasts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    { \"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is the Mount Fuji Edition the same whisky as standard Hibiki 21 Year?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": { \"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes \\u2014 the liquid is identical. The distinction is entirely in the bottle design and commemorative packaging celebrating Mount Fuji's UNESCO recognition.\" } },\n    { \"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Why was Mount Fuji added to UNESCO's World Cultural Heritage List?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": { \"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Mount Fuji was inscribed in 2013 as a cultural heritage site, recognized for its influence on Japanese art, literature, and religious practice over centuries.\" } },\n    { \"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is Mizunara oak and why is it significant?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": { \"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Mizunara is a rare Japanese oak that imparts incense, sandalwood, and coconut notes found nowhere in American or European oak. It takes 200 years to mature to barrel size, making it genuinely scarce.\" } },\n    { \"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is this a good collector's bottle?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": { \"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes \\u2014 the Hibiki 21 Year liquid combined with the UNESCO commemorative context and limited edition presentation make it compelling for Japanese whisky collectors.\" } }\n  ]\n}\n\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":36914123931797,"sku":"4901777271234","price":1099.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Hibiki-21-Kacho-Fugetsu_Front_1600x_3c73bc5a-239a-4b69-a297-cf0279739d50.jpg?v=1699066818"},{"product_id":"suntory-toki-haku-vodka-roku-gin-bundle","title":"Suntory Toki \u0026 Haku Vodka \u0026 Roku Gin Bundle","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Suntory Toki, Haku Vodka \u0026amp; Roku Gin Bundle brings together three expressions of Suntory's Japanese craft spirits program — Toki blended Japanese whisky, Haku Japanese vodka distilled from white rice, and Roku Japanese gin infused with six Japanese botanicals — presenting the full breadth of Suntory's non-whisky craft spirits in one shipment.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEach spirit in the bundle reflects a distinctly Japanese approach to its category. Toki (時 — \"time\") is a blended whisky built on Hakushu malt and Chita heavy grain, designed for the Japanese Highball format. Haku (白 — \"white\") is distilled from Japanese white rice using a combination of traditional pot still and column still distillation, filtered through bamboo charcoal — producing a softly sweet, clean vodka with a subtle rice character that standard grain vodkas don't have. Roku (六 — \"six\") is a gin infused with six Japanese botanicals: Sakura flower, Sakura leaf, Yuzu peel, Sencha tea, Gyokuro tea, and Sansho pepper — each harvested at its seasonal peak and contributing a distinctly Japanese aromatic profile to the London Dry gin framework.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eBundle Contents\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSuntory Toki 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e — Japanese blended whisky, Hakushu\/Chita\/Yamazaki, 43% ABV\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHaku Vodka 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e — Japanese white rice vodka, bamboo charcoal filtered, 40% ABV\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRoku Gin 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e — London Dry gin with six Japanese botanicals, 43% ABV\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 x 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese spirits at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What makes Haku Vodka distinctly Japanese?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Haku is distilled from Japanese white rice — not grain or potato — using traditional pot still and column still distillation, then filtered through bamboo charcoal. The rice base produces a subtle sweetness and softness that standard grain vodkas don't achieve.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What are Roku Gin's six Japanese botanicals?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Sakura flower, Sakura leaf, Yuzu peel, Sencha tea, Gyokuro tea, and Sansho pepper — each harvested at its seasonal peak. Applied to the standard London Dry gin framework, the six botanicals produce a distinctly Japanese aromatic profile alongside the classic juniper base.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37094606766229,"sku":"suntory-toki-haku-vodka-roku-gin-bundle","price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/SuntoryTrio.jpg?v=1699067120"},{"product_id":"nikka-days","title":"Nikka Days Blended Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Days is a blended Japanese whisky built for everyday enjoyment — structured around the mellow and smooth Coffey Grain Whisky and aromatic non-peated Miyagikyo malts, with a touch of Coffey Malt and Yoichi malts to enhance brightness, sweetness, and body, producing an extremely silky mouthfeel with fruity and floral flavors that rise and expand into a delightful aftertaste.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe name Days reflects Nikka's intention for this expression: a whisky subtle enough to drink regularly without demanding the full attention of a special occasion dram, but complex enough to reward attention when given it. The blend architecture is the result of Nikka's full Coffey still and dual distillery range working in harmony — the Coffey Grain's tropical fruit and silky texture providing the accessible foundation, the non-peated Miyagikyo malts adding aromatic floral and fruit character, and the small touches of Coffey Malt and Yoichi rounding out the sweetness and body. The result is a lighter, more approachable Japanese whisky that demonstrates Nikka's blending philosophy at its most accessible.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fruity and floral — light tropical fruit, gentle sweetness, and aromatic Miyagikyo malt character\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Extremely silky mouthfeel — fruity and floral flavors rising and expanding with the warmth of the Yoichi and Coffey Malt additions giving body\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Delightful aftertaste with lingering fruit and light sweetness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nikka Whisky, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Blended Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComponents:\u003c\/strong\u003e Coffey Grain, Miyagikyo malt (non-peated), Coffey Malt, Yoichi malt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 40% (80 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat makes Nikka Days approachable for everyday drinking?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Coffey Grain backbone — corn-based, silky, and fruity — provides a lighter, more accessible foundation than a heavy malt-forward blend. Combined with non-peated Miyagikyo malts at 40% ABV, the result is a whisky with enough complexity to interest enthusiasts but light enough in body and approachable enough in flavor to suit regular enjoyment without ceremony.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What makes Nikka Days suitable for everyday drinking?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The Coffey Grain backbone provides a lighter, more accessible foundation. Combined with non-peated Miyagikyo malts at 40% ABV, the result is complex enough for enthusiasts but approachable enough for regular enjoyment — no ceremony required.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37411962683541,"sku":"S 4904230057642","price":34.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/image_a360ea15-2622-407d-a912-23fa9621818c.jpg?v=1685197021"},{"product_id":"nikka-single-malt-yoichi","title":"Nikka Single Malt Yoichi","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Single Malt Yoichi is the foundational expression of Nikka's first distillery — built in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru in Hokkaido because its climate, geography, and proximity to the sea most closely resembled the Scottish distilling regions where he had trained, producing a heavily peated, coal-fired single malt with a briny maritime character that is unlike any other Japanese whisky.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTaketsuru chose Yoichi deliberately: Hokkaido's cool temperatures, high humidity, and the sea breeze that reaches the distillery during aging all replicate the conditions that Taketsuru believed produced the best Scotch whisky. Yoichi uses direct coal-fired distillation in traditional copper pot stills — a method that most distilleries have abandoned in favor of steam heating because it's more expensive and requires more skill to control, but which Taketsuru maintained because it produces a heavier, more characterful spirit. The coal fire creates a different heating profile than steam, producing more complex congeners and a richer new make spirit. The combination of the heavy production method, the peated malt, and the maritime aging environment produces a Yoichi that is as close to a traditional heavy Islay-style malt as Japanese whisky gets — smoke, brine, fruit, and the distinctive coal-fired richness that only direct fire produces.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peat smoke, sea salt, dried fruit, and the richness that coal-fired distillation produces\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full-bodied and complex — peated malt, brine, dried fruit, and oak spice; the maritime aging evident in the saltiness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and smoky with briny and fruity notes persisting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoichi Distillery, Nikka Whisky, Hokkaido, Japan (est. 1934)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Direct coal-fired pot still\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCharacter:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peated, maritime\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45% (90 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhy does Yoichi use direct coal-fired distillation?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eMasataka Taketsuru learned distilling in Scotland and believed the direct coal-fired method produced a heavier, more complex new make spirit than steam heating. Most modern distilleries use steam for efficiency and consistency. Nikka maintains coal-fired distillation at Yoichi because it produces the heavy, rich character that defines the Yoichi house style — a deliberate commitment to tradition over efficiency.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Why does Yoichi use direct coal-fired distillation?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Masataka Taketsuru believed coal-fired distillation produces a heavier, more complex spirit than steam heating. Nikka maintains coal-fired distillation at Yoichi as a deliberate commitment to the traditional method that defines the distillery's heavy, rich house style.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37411962749077,"sku":"S 4904230044574","price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/NikkaSingleMaltYoichi.jpg?v=1699066984"},{"product_id":"nikka-coffey-vodka-coffey-gin-and-coffey-grain-whiskey-bundle","title":"Nikka Coffey Vodka, Coffey Gin and Coffey Grain Whiskey Bundle","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Nikka Coffey Bundle brings together all three of Nikka's Coffey still expressions in one shipment — Coffey Vodka, Coffey Gin, and Coffey Grain Whisky — offering the complete picture of what Nikka's original 1831-design Coffey stills produce across three different spirit categories.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNikka imported traditional Coffey stills from Scotland in 1963 — the same continuous still design that Aeneas Coffey patented in 1831, before modern high-efficiency column stills replaced it. The Coffey still produces a more complex, texturally rich distillate than modern equipment, and Nikka has leveraged that specific character across three product categories. Tasting all three side by side reveals how the same still produces fundamentally different expressions depending on the grain bill (corn for Vodka and Grain; 11 botanicals for Gin) and the maturation approach (old casks for Grain, no maturation for Vodka and Gin).\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eBundle Contents\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Coffey Vodka 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e — corn and malted barley, silky and smooth with subtle grain character\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Coffey Gin 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e — 11 botanicals including four Japanese citrus varieties and Sansho pepper, 47% ABV\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Coffey Grain Whisky 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e — mainly corn, exotic tropical fruit, rich vanilla, 45% ABV\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nikka Whisky, Miyagikyo Distillery, Sendai, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 x 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What do the three Coffey expressions have in common?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"All three are produced in Nikka's original 1831-design Coffey stills at Miyagikyo. The Coffey still's traditional design retains more grain character than modern column stills, giving all three expressions a distinctive silky, textured quality that unifies them despite being different spirit categories.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37430003105941,"sku":"nikka-coffey-vodka-coffey-gin-and-coffey-grain-whiskey-bundle","price":169.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/NikkaCoffeeyBundle.jpg?v=1699066984"},{"product_id":"nikka-miyagikyo-100th-anniversary-whisky-apple-brandy-finish-750ml","title":"Nikka Miyagikyo 100th Anniversary Whisky Apple Brandy Finish 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Miyagikyo 100th Anniversary Apple Brandy Finish is a special 2020 release commemorating the 100th anniversary of Masataka and Rita Taketsuru's marriage in 1920 — Miyagikyo Single Malt finished in Nikka's own apple brandy casks, uniting two elements that are central to Nikka's founding story: Miyagikyo's elegant, Sherry-influenced character and the apple brandy that kept Nikka commercially viable while the first whiskies were maturing.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen Masataka Taketsuru returned from Scotland in 1920 and eventually founded Nikka in 1934, the company needed products to sell while the whiskies aged. Nikka produced apple juice and apple brandy from Hokkaido apples — a decision that sustained the business and became part of the company's identity. The 100th Anniversary expression finishes Miyagikyo's elegant, fruity single malt character in Nikka's own apple brandy casks, adding a delicate apple aroma alongside the existing Sherry and cinnamon spice character of the distillery. The result is a historically significant release that connects Nikka's present whisky craft to its apple-growing origins.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Delicate apple aroma from the brandy cask finish alongside Miyagikyo's characteristic Sherry and floral notes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Beautiful harmony of apple freshness, Sherry-influenced dried fruit, and warming cinnamon spice — the two cask types in elegant balance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Finesse and sweetness with lingering apple and Sherry character\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Miyagikyo Distillery, Nikka Whisky, Sendai, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky, Apple Brandy Cask Finish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCask:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nikka's own apple brandy casks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBottled:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2020 — 100th anniversary of Masataka and Rita Taketsuru's marriage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is the significance of the apple brandy finish?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Nikka produced apple juice and apple brandy from Hokkaido apples in the 1930s to sustain the business while the first whiskies matured. The apple brandy cask finish on the 100th Anniversary expression directly connects Nikka's founding story to their present whisky craft — the brandy that saved the company is now the finishing cask.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37537146208405,"sku":"S 4904230064404","price":499.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Nikka-Miyagikyo-100th-Anniversary-Whisky-Apple-Brandy-Finish-750ml.jpg?v=1685197021"},{"product_id":"nikka-yoichi-100th-anniversary-whisky-apple-brandy-finish-750ml","title":"Nikka Yoichi 100th Anniversary Whisky Apple Brandy Finish 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Yoichi 100th Anniversary Apple Brandy Finish is the Yoichi counterpart to the Miyagikyo 100th Anniversary — Yoichi Single Malt's coal-fired, peated character finished in Nikka's own apple brandy casks and bottled in 2020 for the centenary of Masataka and Rita Taketsuru's marriage, producing a fascinating interplay between Yoichi's foundational smoke and the orchard fruit character of the apple brandy casks.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhere the Miyagikyo 100th Anniversary is a natural fit for apple brandy finishing — delicate and fruit-forward meeting its complementary fruit character — the Yoichi version is the more surprising expression. Yoichi's coal-fired, peated foundation is bold and robust; the apple brandy cask softens it with freshly-baked orchard fruit aromatics and candied apple sweetness, producing a whisky where peat smoke and fruit exist in an unexpected but genuinely rewarding tension. The centenary occasion connects both expressions to the apple business that sustained Nikka during the critical early years of building a Japanese whisky industry from scratch.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Freshly-baked orchard fruit and the warmth of apple brandy casks tempering Yoichi's underlying peat\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoked pear and candied apple dancing with subtle peaty elements — the apple brandy cask and the coal-fired Yoichi character in dialogue\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smooth and medium-long with the apple sweetness and peat smoke persisting together\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoichi Distillery, Nikka Whisky, Hokkaido, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky, Apple Brandy Cask Finish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCask:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nikka's own apple brandy casks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBottled:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2020 — 100th anniversary of Masataka and Rita Taketsuru's marriage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 47% (94 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How does the apple brandy cask affect Yoichi's peated character?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The apple brandy cask introduces orchard fruit sweetness and candied apple character that softens and balances Yoichi's bold peat and smoke. Rather than obscuring the peat, the apple fruit creates a tension with the smoke that produces an unexpected but rewarding complexity.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37537154334869,"sku":"S 4904230064381","price":499.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Nikka-Yoichi-100th-Anniversary-Whisky-Apple-Brandy-Finish-750ml.jpg?v=1685197030"},{"product_id":"nikka-taketsuru-pure-malt-17-years-old-whiskey-750ml","title":"Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 17 Years Old Whiskey 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 17 Year Old is an age-stated vatted malt from Nikka's Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries — a 17-year expression of the Taketsuru Pure Malt philosophy that extends the standard expression's harmonious character into fuller maturity, earning the distinctive accolade from Jim Murray that its quality lies in how the unobtrusive smell of peat develops over time.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eJim Murray's observation identifies what makes the 17 Year distinctive: the peat is present but never assertive — it develops gradually rather than announcing itself on the nose, integrating with the dried fruit, vanilla, and oak complexity that 17 years of maturation in Nikka's range of casks develops. The Taketsuru 17 Year is one of the most sophisticated aged Japanese whiskies available — old enough to demonstrate what time does to the interplay of Yoichi's smoke and Miyagikyo's elegance, young enough to retain the vibrancy that older whiskies sometimes lose. Named for Masataka Taketsuru and representing his vision of what a mature Japanese blended malt could achieve.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e The unobtrusive peat that Murray identifies — developing gradually alongside dried fruit, vanilla, and the complexity of 17 years of maturation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich and developed — the interplay of Yoichi smoke and Miyagikyo fruit at full maturity, with oak, dried fruit, and spice adding depth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and complex with the signature gentle peat persisting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nikka Whisky, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pure Malt (Vatted Malt) Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e 17 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistilleries:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoichi + Miyagikyo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How does the 17 Year differ from the standard Taketsuru Pure Malt?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Seventeen years of maturation deepens the integration of Yoichi's smoke and Miyagikyo's fruit, adds oak complexity and dried fruit depth, and produces the gradually developing peat that Jim Murray identified as the expression's defining quality. The standard Taketsuru is the accessible entry; the 17 Year is the fully mature statement.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37537157841045,"sku":"S 4904230033547","price":699.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Nikka-Taketsuru-Pure-Malt-17-Years-Old-Whiskey.jpg?v=1685197026"},{"product_id":"nikka-taketsuru-pure-malt-21-years-old-whiskey-750ml","title":"Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 21 Years Old Whiskey 750ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 21 Year Old is the pinnacle of the Taketsuru range — a 21-year vatted malt from Yoichi and Miyagikyo that was named World's Best Blended Malt Whisky by Whisky Magazine in 2009, 2010, and 2011, and is considered one of the greatest whiskies of our time, delivering tropical fruits, roasted nuts, mocha, and a long complex finish of citrus, cinnamon, and woody spices.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThree consecutive years as World's Best Blended Malt is a result that demands explanation — what does 21 years do to the Taketsuru Pure Malt that the 17 Year and the standard NAS expression do not achieve? The answer is integration at the highest level: two decades of maturation in Nikka's range of casks allows the contrast between Yoichi's smoke and Miyagikyo's elegance to fully resolve into a unified complexity rather than a dialogue between two styles. The tropical fruit and mocha character suggests deep ripe fruit from extended sherry and bourbon cask maturation alongside the developing oak spice that only genuinely old whisky produces. The long finish — citrus, cinnamon, and woody spices persisting together — is the hallmark of a whisky that has had the time to develop layers that cannot be rushed.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tropical fruits, roasted nuts, and mocha with a sweet, malty undertone — the full complexity of 21 years of dual-distillery maturation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich and multi-layered — the integrated character of Yoichi and Miyagikyo at 21 years, with fruit, nut, mocha, and spice in harmony\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and complex — citrus, cinnamon, and woody spices lingering in an exceptionally sustained close\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nikka Whisky, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pure Malt (Vatted Malt) Japanese Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e 21 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistilleries:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoichi + Miyagikyo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAwards:\u003c\/strong\u003e World's Best Blended Malt — Whisky Magazine 2009, 2010, 2011\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Why did Taketsuru 21 Year win World's Best Blended Malt three consecutive years?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Twenty-one years allows the contrast between Yoichi's smoke and Miyagikyo's elegance to fully integrate rather than merely coexist. The extended maturation develops tropical fruit, mocha, and oak spice complexity that shorter-aged expressions cannot achieve, producing a whisky of exceptional layered depth that the judges recognized three years running.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37537159872661,"sku":"S 4904230033554","price":799.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Nikka-Taketsuru-Pure-Malt-21-Years-Old-Whiskey.jpg?v=1685197028"},{"product_id":"hana-the-lucky-cat-whisky","title":"Hana The Lucky Cat Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHana The Lucky Cat is a Japanese whisky from Mars Shinshu — Japan’s highest whisky distillery at just over 2,600 feet, sandwiched between the soaring Southern Alps and the towering Central Alps. The Hombo family operates the distillery, having added whisky to a century of shochu production in 1949.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginally located in Kagoshima Prefecture on Kyushu, the Hombo clan moved the distillery in 1984 to the idyllic alpine setting of Miyada village in southern Nagano Prefecture. They chose the site for its cool temperatures (which slow maturation) and its plentiful and soft granite-filtered, snowmelt-fed aquifers. The cool alpine climate and clean water source produce a distinctive Mars Shinshu character that benefits from extended maturation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mars Shinshu, Miyada Village, Nagano Prefecture, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hombo family (Hombo Shuzo) — shochu since 1872, whisky since 1949\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Whisky — Hana The Lucky Cat\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eElevation:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2,600+ ft — Japan’s highest whisky distillery\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mars Shinshu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538837397653,"sku":"SK 4976881521308","price":125.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/TheLuckyCat.jpg?v=1685194945"},{"product_id":"akashi-blended-whisky","title":"Akashi Blended Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAkashi Blended Whisky is from Eigashima Shuzo — Japan’s smallest whisky producer, near Kobe Bay in the historic town of Akashi (“Sun Rise City”). Founded in 1888, Eigashima holds Japan’s first whisky license (issued 1919), but only began producing premium whisky in 1984 using copper pot stills at their ‘White Oak’ facility. A blended Japanese whisky carrying the savory, saline character of the Kobe Bay coast.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe distillery’s coastal Kobe Bay setting influences the maturing whisky, producing the ocean-laden saline-driven purity that distinguishes Akashi from inland Japanese whisky. The Blended expression is the entry to the Akashi range — the broader category that includes the higher-end Akashi Single Malt and the flavored Akashi Ume.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Subtle sea air with malty Japanese craftsmanship\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Harmonious savory and saline notes reflecting the Kobe Bay coast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smooth and refined\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Eigashima Shuzo (White Oak facility), Akashi, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan (est. 1888; first whisky license 1919)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Blended Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/akashi\"\u003eAkashi collection at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Akashi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538839003285,"sku":"SK 4969265778634","price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/AkashiWhite.jpg?v=1685191961"},{"product_id":"akashi-single-malt-whisky","title":"Akashi Single Malt Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAkashi Single Malt Whisky is a Japanese single malt from Eigashima Shuzo — the small ‘White Oak’ distillery near Kobe Bay holding Japan’s first whisky license (issued 1919). The Single Malt sits above the Blended expression in the Akashi range, drawing on the same Kobe Bay coastal maturation environment for a more concentrated saline-driven Japanese single malt character.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEigashima Shuzo, founded in 1888, is one of Japan’s smallest whisky producers and one of the most historically significant — holding the country’s first whisky license predating the development of Japan’s major whisky houses. Premium whisky production began at scale in 1984, with the dedicated copper pot stills enabling the small-team artisanal approach that defines the brand.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Delicate floral and fruity scents with maritime freshness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Harmonious savory and saline notes from the Kobe Bay coastal aging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smooth and lingering, elegant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Eigashima Shuzo (White Oak facility), Akashi, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan (est. 1888; first whisky license 1919)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/akashi\"\u003eAkashi collection at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Akashi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538839101589,"sku":"SK 4969265778597","price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/AkashiSingleMalt.jpg?v=1685191962"},{"product_id":"akashi-ume-plum-whisky","title":"Akashi Ume (Plum) Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAkashi Ume Whisky is produced at Eigashima Shuzo in Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan — one of Japan’s oldest distilleries, operating since 1679 primarily as a sake and shochu producer before adding whisky production. Ume (梅) is the Japanese plum\/apricot, and this expression combines Akashi single malt whisky with ume fruit, producing a fruit-infused whisky liqueur at approximately 14% ABV.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEigashima’s proximity to Kobe Bay means the distillery experiences the coastal sea air that influences maturation conditions. The ume used in this expression is sourced from Japanese plum orchards — ume is technically more closely related to apricot than European plum, with a distinctively tart, floral, and saline character. Ume whisky occupies a category between straight whisky and umeshu (plum liqueur), combining the grain character of the malt base with the fruit complexity of ume maceration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ume fruit, floral, saline sea air, and light malt. \u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sweet-tart ume, whisky grain, and delicate Japanese character. \u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fruit-forward and clean.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Eigashima Shuzo, Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan (est. 1679) — \u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ume (plum) infused whisky — \u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e ~14% — \u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky\u003c\/a\u003e at Wooden Cork.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Akashi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538839429269,"sku":"SK 4969265758834","price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/AkashiUme.jpg?v=1699066507"},{"product_id":"ichiros-malt-grain-limited-edition-whisky","title":"Ichiro's Malt \u0026 Grain Limited Edition Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIchiro’s Malt \u0026amp; Grain Limited Edition is a blended Japanese whisky from Ichiro Akuto, master distiller at Chichibu Distillery — grandson of the founder of Hanyu Distillery, who saved his grandfather’s old inventory after Hanyu shuttered in the 1990s and turned it into the now-legendary Playing Card series before opening Chichibu in 2008. Ichiro is one of the most respected figures in modern Japanese whisky.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIchiro Akuto’s journey is one of the defining stories of the modern Japanese whisky revival. After Hanyu closed in the 1990s, Ichiro preserved his grandfather’s aging stock and built the Playing Card series — now unicorn whisky in the collector market. Recognizing the looming Japanese whisky revival, he founded Chichibu Distillery in 2008. At Chichibu, Ichiro embraces both the heritage of Scottish whisky-making and the shokunin (artisan-craft) philosophy of precision that defines Japanese spirits at their highest level.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ichiro Akuto, Chichibu Distillery, Saitama Prefecture, Japan (est. 2008)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Blended Whisky — Malt \u0026amp; Grain Limited Edition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chichibu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538839789717,"sku":"ichiros-malt-grain-limited-edition-whisky","price":189.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/IchirosBlue.jpg?v=1699066831"},{"product_id":"mars-shinshu-iwai-tradition-whisky","title":"Mars Shinshu Iwai Tradition Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMars Shinshu Iwai Tradition is a blended Japanese whisky from Mars Shinshu — Japan’s highest whisky distillery at 2,600+ feet in the Nagano Alps. Named after Kiichiro Iwai, the Mars whisky-making mentor who helped guide Masataka Taketsuru of Nikka, the Iwai range carries forward the lineage of pre-war Japanese whisky pioneers. “Tradition” is the flagship blend in the Iwai lineup.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Hombo family has been distilling shochu for more than a century and added whisky to their repertoire in 1949 with the help of Kiichiro Iwai. After originally producing in Kagoshima on Kyushu, the Hombo clan moved the distillery in 1984 to Miyada village in southern Nagano Prefecture, chosen for cool temperatures (which slow maturation) and abundant soft granite-filtered, snowmelt-fed water.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mars Shinshu, Miyada Village, Nagano, Japan (est. 1949; relocated 1984)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Blended Whisky — Iwai Tradition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/mars-shinshu\"\u003eMars Shinshu collection at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mars Shinshu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538840019093,"sku":"SK 4976881520592","price":34.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/MarsWhite.jpg?v=1699066936"},{"product_id":"mars-shinshu-iwai-45-whisky","title":"Mars Shinshu Iwai 45 Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMars Shinshu Iwai 45 is a blended Japanese whisky from Mars Shinshu — Japan’s highest whisky distillery at 2,600+ feet in the Nagano Alps. The ‘45’ refers to the bottling proof (45% ABV), positioning this expression at a higher strength than the standard Iwai Tradition. Named for Kiichiro Iwai, the pre-war whisky-making mentor who guided the Mars project.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Hombo family has been distilling shochu for more than a century and added whisky to their repertoire in 1949 with the help of Kiichiro Iwai. After originally producing in Kagoshima, the family moved the distillery in 1984 to the cool, soft-water mountain setting of Miyada village in southern Nagano Prefecture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mars Shinshu, Miyada Village, Nagano, Japan (est. 1949; relocated 1984)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Blended Whisky — Iwai 45\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/mars-shinshu\"\u003eMars Shinshu collection at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mars Shinshu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538840215701,"sku":"SK 4976881502406","price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Iwai45.jpg?v=1699066936"},{"product_id":"mars-shinshu-iwai-tradition-sakura-cask-whisky","title":"Mars Shinshu Iwai Tradition - Sakura Cask Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMars Shinshu Iwai Tradition Sakura Cask is a sakura (cherry blossom) cask-finished blended Japanese whisky from Mars Shinshu — Japan’s highest whisky distillery in the Nagano Alps. The standard Iwai Tradition blend further finished in casks made from sakura wood, the distinctly Japanese cherry tree species, adding a subtle floral, slightly tannic, and uniquely Japanese cask character to the base whisky.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSakura wood casks are a rare and distinctly Japanese finishing approach — the same cherry blossom tree that defines Japanese spring symbolism contributes a soft floral and gentle tannic profile to maturing whisky that no other wood produces. The combination of the Mars Shinshu Nagano-Alps base whisky with the sakura cask finish creates an expression deeply rooted in Japanese terroir.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mars Shinshu, Miyada Village, Nagano, Japan (est. 1949; relocated 1984)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Blended Whisky — Iwai Tradition Sakura Cask Finish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sakura (Japanese cherry) wood casks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/mars-shinshu\"\u003eMars Shinshu collection at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mars Shinshu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538840281237,"sku":"SK 4976881520592","price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/IwaiBlended.jpg?v=1685196136"},{"product_id":"mars-shinshu-komagatake-yakushima-aged-2020-single-malt-whisky","title":"Mars Shinshu Komagatake - Yakushima Aged 2020 Single Malt Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMars Shinshu Komagatake Yakushima Aged 2020 is a single malt Japanese whisky from Mars Shinshu — distilled at Mars Shinshu in the Nagano Alps and aged at the Yakushima warehouse on Yakushima Island in subtropical southern Japan. The dual-location maturation produces a distinctly different profile from the Nagano-aged expressions, with the subtropical climate accelerating cask interaction.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Hombo family operates Mars across multiple sites: the main Mars Shinshu distillery in the Nagano Alps and additional aging facilities including the Yakushima warehouse. Yakushima Island’s subtropical climate, with high humidity and warmer temperatures, produces a faster, more concentrated maturation than the cool Nagano environment — making this 2020 release a distinctly different expression of the Komagatake single malt.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mars Shinshu (Komagatake), Nagano Prefecture, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAging:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yakushima Warehouse, Yakushima Island (subtropical southern Japan)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRelease:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2020 vintage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/mars-shinshu\"\u003eMars Shinshu collection at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mars Shinshu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538840314005,"sku":"mars-shinshu-komagatake-yakushima-aged-2020-single-malt-whisky","price":449.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/MarsBlue.jpg?v=1685196140"},{"product_id":"mars-shinshu-komagatake-tsunuki-aging-2019-single-malt-whisky","title":"Mars Shinshu Komagatake - Tsunuki Aging 2019 Single Malt Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMars Shinshu Komagatake Tsunuki Aging 2019 is a single malt Japanese whisky distilled at Mars Shinshu in the Nagano Alps and aged at the Tsunuki Distillery and warehouse in Kagoshima Prefecture, southern Japan. The dual-location distillation and aging combines the cool Nagano climate at distillation with warmer southern aging conditions at Tsunuki.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Hombo family operates two distilleries (Mars Shinshu in Nagano and Tsunuki in Kagoshima) plus the Yakushima Aging Cellar. The Tsunuki location is historically significant as the original Hombo family distillery site before the 1984 relocation to Nagano. Aging Komagatake-distilled spirit at Tsunuki marks a return to the family’s southern roots while drawing on the cool-distillation advantage of the Nagano Alps.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mars Shinshu (Komagatake), Nagano Prefecture, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAging:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsunuki Distillery, Kagoshima Prefecture, southern Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRelease:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2019 vintage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/mars-shinshu\"\u003eMars Shinshu collection at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mars Shinshu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538840346773,"sku":"SK 4976881502840","price":192.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Komagatake.jpg?v=1685196137"},{"product_id":"mars-shinshu-tsunuki-the-first-single-malt-whisky","title":"Mars Shinshu Tsunuki: The First Single Malt Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMars Shinshu Tsunuki: The First is the inaugural single malt release from the Hombo family’s Tsunuki Distillery in Kagoshima Prefecture, southern Japan — marking the historic return of whisky production to the family’s original Kagoshima roots. “The First” signifies this as the inaugural release from the newly active Tsunuki distillery operation.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Hombo family produced whisky from Kagoshima Prefecture on Kyushu from 1949 until relocating to Nagano in 1984. The reactivation of the Tsunuki Distillery returns whisky production to the family’s southern Japan origin, with the warmer Kagoshima climate producing a distinctly different character from the cool Nagano Mars Shinshu spirit. The First represents the debut of this revived production line.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsunuki Distillery, Hombo Family, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky — The First (inaugural release)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/mars-shinshu\"\u003eMars Shinshu collection at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mars Shinshu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538840379541,"sku":"SK 4976881504028","price":199.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Tsunuki.jpg?v=1685196142"},{"product_id":"sarorunkamuy-the-first-single-malt-whisky","title":"Akkeshi Sarorunkamuy The First Single Malt Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAkkeshi Sarorunkamuy The First Single Malt is the inaugural single malt release from Akkeshi Distillery — located on Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido, further east than any other Japanese distillery. The Akkeshi region’s cool, moist climate with frequent rolling sea fog from the Bekan-Beushi wetlands closely resembles Islay’s maritime peat-influenced conditions, and the distillery deliberately blends traditional Scottish methods with the local environment to create whisky with distinctively Islay-adjacent character.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Sarorunkamuy” is an Ainu (indigenous Hokkaido) word meaning “marsh deity” — reflecting the Bekan-Beushi wetlands surrounding the distillery and the spiritual significance of the marsh landscape in Ainu culture. Akkeshi began distilling in 2016 with the explicit goal of producing Japanese whisky that captures Islay-style maritime peated character through a uniquely Hokkaido environmental signature.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akkeshi Distillery, Hokkaido, Japan (production since 2016)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky — Sarorunkamuy The First (inaugural release)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Akkeshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37538841067669,"sku":"SK 4573479360167","price":95.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/AkkeSingle.jpg?v=1685191961"},{"product_id":"the-hakushu-18-year-old-single-malt-whisky","title":"Hakushu 18 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky 750 ml","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHakushu 18 Year Old is the fully age-stated apex of Hakushu's standard lineup — 18 years in Suntory's mountain forest distillery at 700 meters elevation in the Southern Japanese Alps, producing the deepest and most complex expression of Hakushu's herbal, lightly peated, and distinctly fresh character that the distillery is known for.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Hakushu Distillery was established in 1973 by Keizo Saji — Shinjiro Torii's son and Suntory's second president — in a deliberate contrast to Yamazaki's warm, lowland valley character. At 700 meters elevation, surrounded by the pristine forests of the Southern Alps, the distillery draws on ultra-soft alpine spring water from one of Japan's purest sources, and the cool, damp forest microclimate produces a longer, more delicate maturation cycle than lowland distilleries experience. The lightly peated malt component — present in all Hakushu expressions — contributes the characteristic herbaceous smoke that distinguishes Hakushu from every other major Japanese single malt. At 18 years, the oak integration is complete enough for the pear, mint, and oregano character to have deepened significantly, the jasmine and mango notes developed from extended maturation, and the smoke character evolved from the fresh green quality of the 12 Year to a more resolved, pleasantly mineral presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ripe pear, dried mint, oregano, and a hint of smoke — more developed and complex than the 12 Year\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Jasmine, mango, quince, and menthol with the silky mouthfeel of 18 years of alpine maturation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and pleasantly smoky with a subtle mineral bitterness — the most developed Hakushu close\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hakushu Distillery, Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan (est. 1973)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eElevation:\u003c\/strong\u003e 700 meters, Southern Japanese Alps\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ultra-soft alpine spring water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eABV:\u003c\/strong\u003e 43% (86 Proof)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eHow does Hakushu 18 Year differ from Hakushu 12 Year?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eSix additional years of alpine maturation deepen the pear and orchard fruit character, develop the jasmine and mango notes that are less pronounced in the 12 Year, and allow the lightly peated smoke to resolve from a fresh green quality into a more mineral, pleasantly complex presence. 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Significantly more layered while retaining Hakushu's distinctive freshness.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37684182057109,"sku":"088857001838","price":849.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/00088857001838_C1N1_en-JP0827_s01.psd.jpg?v=1679516640"},{"product_id":"mars-shinshu-komagatake-limited-2020-single-malt-whisky","title":"Mars Shinshu Komagatake Limited 2020 Single Malt Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMars Shinshu Komagatake Limited 2020 is a limited single malt Japanese whisky from Mars Shinshu — Japan’s highest whisky distillery at 2,600+ feet in the Nagano Alps. The Komagatake range is named after the mountain that overlooks the distillery; the Limited 2020 is the standard limited annual release from the main Mars Shinshu distillation and aging program.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Hombo family obtained their whisky license in 1949 with the help of advisor Kiichiro Iwai, and Mars Shinshu was relocated to the cool, soft-water Nagano Alps in 1984. The Komagatake Limited series represents the annual peak releases from the Mars program — selected casks bottled in limited quantity each year.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mars Shinshu, Miyada Village, Nagano, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky — Komagatake Limited 2020\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/mars-shinshu\"\u003eMars Shinshu collection at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mars Shinshu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37731750969493,"sku":"SK 4976881503380","price":199.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Komagatake_a4093806-e898-4463-9a64-b05532abf757.jpg?v=1685196140"},{"product_id":"mars-shinshu-komagatake-tsunuki-aging-2020-single-malt-whisky","title":"Mars Shinshu Komagatake - Tsunuki Aging 2020 Single Malt Whisky","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMars Shinshu Komagatake Tsunuki Aging 2020 is a single malt Japanese whisky distilled at Mars Shinshu in the Nagano Alps and aged at the Tsunuki Distillery and warehouse in Kagoshima Prefecture, southern Japan. The dual-location distillation and aging combines the cool Nagano climate at distillation with warmer southern aging conditions at Tsunuki — the Hombo family’s original Kagoshima site before the 1984 relocation to Nagano.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Tsunuki location is historically significant for the Hombo family’s whisky program. Aging Komagatake-distilled spirit at Tsunuki returns the maturation phase to the family’s southern Japanese roots while drawing on the cool-distillation advantage of the Nagano Alps.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistillery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mars Shinshu (Komagatake), Nagano Prefecture, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAging:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsunuki Distillery, Kagoshima Prefecture, southern Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Single Malt Whisky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRelease:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2020 vintage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/mars-shinshu\"\u003eMars Shinshu collection at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mars Shinshu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37731759521941,"sku":"SK 4976881503380","price":299.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/TheFirst.jpg?v=1685196139"},{"product_id":"hibiki-blossom-harmony-whisky","title":"Hibiki Blossom Harmony Whisky 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHibiki Blossom Harmony 2021 is a landmark limited annual release — the first Hibiki expression ever finished in sakura (cherry) wood barrels, adding a delicate cherry blossom aroma and gentle sweetness to the standard Hibiki Harmony blend that no previous Hibiki expression has achieved, presented in a bottle with intricate sakura floral designs that reflect the seasonal significance of cherry blossom in Japanese culture.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSakura wood is vanishingly rare as a whisky cask material — cherry trees grow slowly and their wood is extremely dense and difficult to work with, making sakura barrel production an artisanal undertaking that most distilleries don't attempt. Suntory has been experimenting with Japanese wood types for decades as part of its broader Mizunara oak program, and the Blossom Harmony represents the commercial debut of sakura finishing for the Hibiki range. The base blend is the standard Hibiki Harmony multi-distillery, five-cask expression; the sakura finish adds a layer of delicate cherry blossom aroma and a subtle floral sweetness that sits above the Harmony's existing rose, lychee, and Mizunara character without overwhelming it. The 2021 release was produced in limited quantities and is unlikely to return in identical form in subsequent years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cherry blossom aroma over the standard Hibiki Harmony rose and lychee character — floral and delicate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mellow and harmonious — the sakura finish adding a gentle sweetness and floral complexity to the five-cask Harmony blend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lingering yet refreshing — the cherry blossom character persisting lightly through a clean close\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProducer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Suntory, Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Japanese Blended Whisky, Limited Annual Release\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBase:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hibiki Harmony (10+ whiskies, five cask types, Yamazaki\/Hakushu\/Chita)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sakura (cherry) wood barrels — the first sakura finish in Hibiki history\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRelease:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2021\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 750ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrowse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-foreign\"\u003eJapanese whisky at Wooden Cork\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Why is sakura wood finishing significant?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Cherry trees grow slowly and their wood is extremely dense and difficult to work with — sakura barrel production is an artisanal undertaking most distilleries don't attempt. The Blossom Harmony represents the commercial debut of sakura finishing for the Hibiki range, adding cherry blossom aroma and floral sweetness unavailable in any other cask type.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37867274993813,"sku":"21-4901777359895","price":399.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0276\/1621\/5176\/products\/Image_01e3b938-7f3b-4a55-9170-be526accb1f1.jpg?v=1679137430"}],"url":"https:\/\/woodencork.com\/collections\/japanese-whiskey.oembed?page=4","provider":"Wooden Cork","version":"1.0","type":"link"}