Hayashi 24 Year Old is an exceptionally old Ryukyu whisky from Okinawa, Japan's southernmost islands, crafted with indica rice and matured in bourbon casks before being bottled at 43% ABV. Its label carries the Japanese character 林, hayashi, written in gold above an ink-wash mountain landscape.
Ryukyu whisky takes its name from the old kingdom of the Okinawan islands, a place with centuries of distilling tradition built around rice. Hayashi brings that heritage into whisky, and at 24 years old this is one of the oldest expressions in its range. Long years in bourbon casks in Okinawa's warm, humid climate give it a gentle, perfumed character that sets it apart from the malt whiskies of mainland Japan.
The whisky has been widely praised: Whisky Advocate scored the 2026 release 91 points, describing an aromatic nose of perfumed oak, jasmine, rose petals, tea leaves and lemon sorbet, and a citrus-led palate of lemon peel, marmalade and baking spice that is light on its feet yet full of flavour. The earlier release, scored 88, showed crème caramel, baked peach and candied peel.
Presented in a white gift box decorated with the same gold calligraphy and misty mountain artwork, Hayashi 24 is an elegant introduction to Okinawa's distilling culture and a distinctive bottle for any collection of Japanese whisky.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Perfumed oak, jasmine, rose petals, tea leaves and lemon sorbet.
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Palate: Citrus-led, with lemon peel, marmalade and baking spice over subtle oak.
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Finish: Lingering citrus and gentle spice.
Specifications
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Producer: Hayashi
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Style: Ryukyu Whisky (Okinawa, Japan)
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Age: 24 years
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Proof / ABV: 86 proof (43% ABV)
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Cask / Finish: Bourbon casks
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Region: Okinawa, Japan
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Size: 700ml
How to Enjoy It
Serve it neat in a tulip glass to enjoy the floral aromas, or with a splash of chilled water, Japanese style, to lift the citrus. Its delicate profile suits lighter food: sushi, sashimi, citrus desserts or green tea sweets. Boxed and beautifully labelled, it makes a refined gift for anyone who appreciates Japanese craft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ryukyu whisky?
Whisky from Okinawa, the islands of the old Ryukyu kingdom; Hayashi crafts it with indica rice.
How old is Hayashi 24?
It is aged 24 years in bourbon casks.
What proof is it?
It is bottled at 43% ABV, or 86 proof.
Explore more in our Japanese Whisky collection.
