Japan is known for its high-quality whisky, and in recent years, the country has become a major player in the global whisky market. While many people may be familiar with the big names in Japanese whisky like Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Nikka, there are also many lesser-known distilleries that are producing some truly exceptional whiskies that are worth exploring.
One category of Japanese whisky that has been gaining popularity in recent years is “whisky from the hood”. This refers to whiskies that are produced by small, independent distilleries that are often located in less well-known regions of Japan. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Japan whisky from the hood so special and where you can find some of the best bottles to try.
What is Japan Whisky from the Hood?
Japan whisky from the hood is a term that refers to whiskies that are produced by independent, small-scale distilleries that are often located in more rural areas of Japan. These distilleries tend to be run by families or small groups of enthusiasts who are passionate about producing high-quality whisky.
Unlike some of the bigger commercial distilleries, which may produce hundreds of thousands of bottles per year, Japan whisky from the hood is often produced in much smaller quantities. This means that the distillers can focus on quality over quantity, and they are able to experiment with different techniques and ingredients to create unique and interesting flavors.
What Makes Japan Whisky from the Hood Special?
One of the things that makes Japan whisky from the hood so special is the passion and dedication of the people who produce it. These distillers are not just making whisky as a business; they are doing it because they love it, and they want to create something truly special.
Another factor that sets Japan whisky from the hood apart is the use of local ingredients. Many of these smaller distilleries use locally-sourced grains, water, and other ingredients to create whiskies that are unique to their region. This means that you can taste the terroir of the area in the whisky, much like you would with a fine wine.
Finally, Japan whisky from the hood is often aged in different types of casks than the big commercial distilleries use. While many commercial distilleries use ex-bourbon or ex-sherry casks, some of the smaller distillers are experimenting with new types of casks, like mizunara oak, which can produce some truly unique flavors.
Where Can You Find Japan Whisky from the Hood?
If you’re interested in trying some Japan whisky from the hood for yourself, there are a few places where you can start your search:
| Retailer | Description |
|---|---|
| Whisk-e | This online retailer stocks a wide selection of Japanese whisky, including some lesser-known brands and bottlings. |
| Kampai Garden | This Montreal-based restaurant offers a wide selection of Japanese whisky, including some bottles from smaller, independent distilleries. |
| The Whisky Exchange | This UK-based retailer has a large selection of Japanese whisky, including some harder-to-find bottles. |
You can also try searching for Japan whisky from the hood at your local specialty liquor store, or check out online auction sites like eBay or Whisky Auctioneer to see if any rare bottles are available.
Some Great Japan Whisky from the Hood to Try
If you’re not sure where to start with Japan whisky from the hood, here are a few recommendations:
- Akashi White Oak – This whisky from the Eigashima distillery in Hyogo Prefecture is aged in ex-sherry casks and has a rich, fruity flavor.
- Kurayoshi Pure Malt – This whisky from the Matsui distillery in Tottori Prefecture is made with locally-sourced barley and is aged in ex-bourbon casks. It has a smooth, sweet flavor with a hint of smoke.
- Miyagikyo Single Malt – While not strictly a “whisky from the hood”, this bottling from the Nikka distillery in Miyagi Prefecture is a great example of the high quality of Japanese whisky. It’s aged in a variety of casks, including mizunara oak, and has a complex flavor with notes of fruit, spice, and vanilla.
The Bottom Line
Japan whisky from the hood is a category of whisky that is gaining popularity among enthusiasts and collectors. By seeking out bottles from smaller, independent distilleries, you can discover unique and interesting flavors that you won’t find from the big commercial producers. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky drinker or a newcomer to the world of Japanese whisky, exploring the world of Japan whisky from the hood is well worth your time.
FAQ
Q: Is Japan whisky from the hood more expensive than commercial Japanese whisky?
A: It depends on the bottling, but in general, Japan whisky from the hood can be more expensive than commercial Japanese whisky. Because it’s produced in smaller quantities and often aged in more unique casks, the cost per bottle can be higher.
Q: Is Japan whisky from the hood harder to find than commercial Japanese whisky?
A: Yes and no. While some bottles from smaller distilleries may be harder to find, there are still many online retailers and specialty shops that stock a wide selection of Japan whisky from the hood. It may just take a bit more effort to track down the specific bottling you’re looking for.
Q: Is Japan whisky from the hood better than commercial Japanese whisky?
A: That’s subjective and depends on personal taste. While some people may prefer the flavors of Japan whisky from the hood, others may prefer the more traditional flavors of commercial Japanese whisky. The only way to know for sure is to try both and see which you prefer!
Thank you for reading, and we hope you enjoyed learning about Japan whisky from the hood. Be sure to check out our other articles on whisky and spirits for more great information and recommendations!