In several of our other articles about investing in whisky, we have mentioned that Japanese whiskies are becoming more popular, and one of the distilleries that has been garnering international acclaim is Yamazaki. Known for its exceptional quality and innovative production methods, Yamazaki has not only captivated whisky enthusiasts but also attracted the attention of savvy investors. This article explores the journey of Yamazaki, the unique characteristics that define its whiskies, and Yamazaki whiskies as investments.

The Story of Yamazaki

Historical Roots:

The establishment of the Yamazaki Distillery in 1923 was not an ordinary opening of a new distillery – it was the first distillery to be established in Japan. Shinjiro Torii, the founder of Suntory, had a vision to create a uniquely Japanese whisky and was inspired by traditional Scottish methods but keen to adapt them to Japanese tastes. Situated in the misty hills of Kyoto, the Yamazaki Distillery laid the groundwork for what would become a thriving industry.

Craftsmanship and Innovation:

Yamazaki whiskies are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, and its approach of blending traditional Scottish techniques with innovative Japanese practices made it stand out as this was not done at any other distillery yet. The distillery employs a variety of cask types, including American, Spanish, and Japanese oak, which contribute to the complex and layered flavours of its whiskies.

Global Acclaim:

If you have been interested in the whisky market for a long time, you might have noticed that Yamazaki and other Japanese whisky distilleries were not heard of much until recent years. The turning point for Japanese whisky came in 2003, when Yamazaki’s 12-Year-Old single malt won a gold medal at the International Spirits Challenge. This accolade was followed by numerous awards and recognitions, establishing Yamazaki as a global player in the whisky industry. The distillery’s whiskies are now revered for their balance, complexity, and elegance, often drawing comparisons to the finest Scotch whiskies.

The Unique Characteristics of Yamazaki Whisky

Flavour Profile:

Yamazaki whiskies have delicate, nuanced, and unique flavour profiles that you might have never tasted before. Common tasting notes include honey, dried fruit, vanilla, and mizunara (Japanese oak) wood, which imparts a distinctive, subtle spiciness. The interplay of different cask types during maturation results in a harmonious blend of flavours that is both refined and complex.

Mizunara Oak:

One reason why the flavour of Yamazaki whiskies is different to others in the market is the use of mizunara oak casks. Indigenous to Japan, mizunara oak imparts unique flavours such as sandalwood, coconut, and Japanese incense, adding an exotic and desirable element to the whisky. The rarity and difficulty in working with mizunara oak make these whiskies particularly special.

Japanese Mizunara Oak Casks. Photograph by Greg Mazur.

Aging Process:

In our article about The Science of Whisky Aging, we discussed how the environment of the location of a distillery can affect its whiskies. Yamazaki’s location provides a unique climate for whisky aging. The hot and humid summers and cold winters create ideal conditions for the maturation process, allowing the whisky to develop depth and complexity over time. The distillery’s use of a variety of cask types further enhances the aging process, resulting in whiskies with a rich and diverse flavour profile.

Investment Appeal

As aforementioned, the global demand for Japanese whisky, and Yamazaki in particular, has surged in recent years. Collectors and enthusiasts around the world seek out these whiskies for their quality and distinctive character. Rare and limited edition bottles in particular have appreciated significantly over time. For instance, the Yamazaki 50-Year-Old, released in extremely limited quantities, has seen its value soar at auctions, with some bottles fetching over $300,000. With a perfect blend of tradition and innovation at its core, Yamazaki is well-positioned to maintain its status as a top-tier whisky brand and have its whiskies be greatly sought after by both Asian and Western consumers. As the appreciation for Japanese whisky grows, so too does the investment potential of Yamazaki whiskies.

Tips for Investing in Yamazaki Whisky

1. Understand the Portfolio

Before making a purchase, familiarise yourself with the different ranges and editions of Yamazaki whisky so you know all of your options. The core range includes the Yamazaki 12-Year-Old, 18-Year-Old, and 25-Year-Old, each offering unique characteristics and investment potential. The Yamazaki 18-Year-Old is renowned for its rich and complex flavours, making it a popular choice among collectors. Limited edition releases, such as the Yamazaki Sherry Cask, are also highly sought after and can appreciate significantly in value.

2. Look for Limited Editions

If you’ve read any of our articles about whisky investment, you’ll know that we always recommend looking for limited editions due to their rarity and quality. The Yamazaki Mizunara 2017 Edition, aged in rare Japanese oak casks, is a prime example of a limited edition that has garnered significant interest from collectors. Its unique flavour profile and limited availability make it a valuable addition to any collection.

3. Monitor Market Trends

Since Yamazaki is still a relatively new distillery in the whisky market, it is important to look at how Yamazaki whiskies have performed in recent years to predict their potential appreciation in the future. Tracking the performance of Yamazaki whiskies on auction sites like Sotheby’s and Bonhams can provide insights into their investment potential. The Yamazaki 25-Year-Old, for instance, has seen strong appreciation in value over the years.

4. Maintain Condition

As with any other whisky bottle, it is important to ensure that the bottles you invest in are in pristine condition, with intact packaging and labels. Proper storage is crucial to preserving their value. Storing your Yamazaki whiskies in a cool, dark place and avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures will help maintain their condition and value. Bottles from the Yamazaki Single Cask series, for example, can significantly depreciate if their packaging is damaged.

Although Yamazaki does not have as long of a history as some other top distilleries, its unique flavour profiles, use of mizunara oak, and ideal aging conditions set it apart from other whiskies, making it a favourite among whisky enjoyers and investors. Yamazaki’s rise in the world of whisky is a testament to its dedication to craftsmanship and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to whisky investment, Yamazaki offers a blend of tradition and modern appeal that is hard to beat.

Want to learn more about some of the other top distilleries in the world? Visit the WhiskyGenius blog where we explore the histories, specialties and investment appeals of different distilleries and brands.

Please enjoy whisky responsibly.

Banner photograph from The House of Suntory.