The Forest Distillery (1973)

Built in 1973 deep in the forests of the Southern Japanese Alps (Mt. Kaikoma), Hakushu Distillery is one of the highest distilleries in the world. The goal was to create a whisky completely different from Yamazaki—fresh, green, and gently smoky.

Fresh and Verdant

Hakushu is often described as "mountain forest in a glass." It uses water from the Ojira River, one of Japan's purest water sources. The whisky is lightly peated, giving it a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with the herbal notes.

Highlights:

• Flavor Profile: Green apple, mint, pine needles, and soft smoke.

• Drinking Style: Famous for the "Highball" (whisky and soda) due to its refreshing nature.

• Uniqueness: A rare example of a fresh, grassy single malt.