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    Hakushu distillery
    All Distilleries
    Japan

    Hakushu

    Hokuto, Yamanashi, Japan Est. 1973 Suntory (Beam Suntory)

    Region

    Japan

    Founded

    1973

    Products

    —

    Avg. Price

    —

    Heritage

    53+ years of heritage

    Owner

    Suntory (Beam Suntory)

    ABV Range

    —

    Awards

    3 recognised

    Signature Profile

    Flavour Profile

    Smoky28%
    Fruity65%
    Floral82%
    Spicy35%
    Sweet55%
    Peaty15%

    Profile based on regional characteristics and distillery style. Individual expressions may vary.

    From Source to Spirit

    Production Process

    🌾Step 1

    Malting

    5–7 days

    Barley is soaked in water, allowed to germinate, then dried in a kiln. Peat may be used for smoky character.

    💧Step 2

    Mashing

    6–8 hours

    The malted barley is ground into grist and mixed with hot water in a mash tun to extract fermentable sugars.

    🧪Step 3

    Fermentation

    48–120 hours

    The sugary wort is transferred to washbacks (wooden or steel) where yeast converts sugars to alcohol.

    🔥Step 4

    Distillation

    6–8 hours × 2

    The wash is distilled twice (or thrice) in copper pot stills. The still shape profoundly influences the spirit's character.

    🪵Step 5

    Maturation

    3–50+ years

    New make spirit enters oak casks — ex-bourbon, sherry, wine or virgin oak — and matures in the warehouse.

    🍾Step 6

    Bottling

    Final stage

    After reaching optimal maturity, the whisky is vatted or bottled as single cask, diluted to strength and packaged.

    The Story of Hakushu

    Nestled in the Japanese Southern Alps at 700 metres elevation, Hakushu is one of the world's highest distilleries. Known for fresh, herbaceous whiskies influenced by the pristine mountain environment.

    Recognition & Excellence

    Awards & Achievements

    Double Gold2021

    Hakushu Flagship Expression

    San Francisco World Spirits

    Gold2024

    Hakushu Reserve

    Ultimate Spirits Challenge

    Gold Outstanding2023

    Hakushu Special Edition

    IWSC

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    About Hakushu Distillery

    Hakushu is located in Hokuto, Yamanashi, Japan, established in 1973. Currently owned by Suntory (Beam Suntory), the distillery is known for producing exceptional spirits that reflect its unique terroir and heritage.

    At The Royal Barrel, we are proud to feature Hakushu in our curated directory of the world's finest distilleries. Each distillery in our collection is selected for its commitment to quality, its contribution to the spirits industry, and its unique story of craft and tradition.

    Browse our full collection of products from Hakushu or explore other distilleries from the Japan region in our distillery directory. For expert guidance on choosing the perfect spirit, visit our expert guides.