Yamazaki 12 Year Old is the single malt that introduced many drinkers to Japanese whisky. It comes from the oldest malt whisky distillery in Japan and shows the balance and precision Japanese whisky is famous for.
Where Japanese whisky began
Shinjiro Torii, founder of Suntory, built the Yamazaki distillery in 1923 on the outskirts of Kyoto, where three rivers meet and the soft water and misty climate suit whisky making. It was Japan’s first malt whisky distillery. Yamazaki 12 was launched in 1984 and became Japan’s flagship single malt.
The Mizunara touch
Yamazaki 12 is aged in a mix of casks, including American oak, Spanish oak and Japanese Mizunara oak. Mizunara is rare and difficult to work with, and it is prized for adding notes often described as sandalwood and incense.
How it tastes
Expect peach, pineapple, grapefruit and honey, with vanilla, coconut and a gentle spice from the Mizunara. It is smooth and fruity, with a long, elegant finish.
How to enjoy it
- Neat: to taste every layer.
- Highball: one part whisky to three or four parts chilled soda water over plenty of ice, a classic in Japan.
- Pair with: sushi, yakitori or tempura.
Explore further: we also carry Yamazaki Distiller’s Reserve, the rare Yamazaki 18, Hibiki Japanese Harmony and Suntory Toki.
Buy Yamazaki in Millbrae
Visit T&Y Wine & Spirits at 260 Broadway, Millbrae, or order online for pickup or Bay Area delivery.
Frequently asked questions
Who makes Yamazaki whisky?
Suntory, at the Yamazaki distillery near Kyoto, founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii.
What is Mizunara oak?
A rare Japanese oak used for aging whisky, known for adding sandalwood and incense-like notes.
Where can I buy Yamazaki 12 near San Francisco?
T&Y Wine & Spirits at 260 Broadway in Millbrae, with pickup and Bay Area delivery.
Please enjoy responsibly. You must be 21 or older to purchase alcohol.