Suntory Hakushu 18 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

Production wise, Suntory's Hakushu distillery (pronounced "Hack-shoo") is the largest malt whisky distillery not only in Japan, but in the world. Built in 1973 coinciding with Suntory's 50th anniversary, it's set amidst spectacular pine forests close to the Japanese Alps. Suntory also purchased the distillery surrounds to protect water quality and conserve the local environment. In fact, water from the district is considered the best in Japan, something Suntory have capitalised on by bottling and selling it throughout the country. All the barley required for single malt whisky production here is imported from Scotland or elsewhere (including countries like France, England and Australia). The resulting whiskies make a significant contribution to Suntory's large number of malts and blends. Due to the distillery's height above sea level (700m), low pressure distillation occurs naturally, said to contribute to the light, fruity style of the whiskies