The Yamazaki Story of the Distillery 2026 Edition is a limited release single malt from Suntory's Yamazaki distillery, matured predominantly in Mizunara, Spanish oak and American white oak casks and bottled at 43% ABV. It was released on 26 May 2026.
Yamazaki, founded by Shinjiro Torii in 1923 on the outskirts of Kyoto, is Japan's first malt whisky distillery. The Story of the Distillery series celebrates its craft and setting, and the 2026 edition's label and box feature Minase Falls, near the distillery, printed on traditional Echizen washi paper, a tribute to the water that makes Yamazaki an ideal place for whisky making.
Reddish amber in colour, it shows rich dried persimmon sweetness with a clove accent on the nose. The palate is complex and full, with orange marmalade and a sweetness reminiscent of adzuki beans, and the finish is long, with light smoke and spice.
It is a beautiful gift and a collectable for lovers of Japanese whisky.
Enjoy it neat or with a little chilled water, in the Japanese mizuwari style.
Japanese whisky has earned a worldwide reputation for balance and precision, and limited releases from its historic distilleries are among the most sought-after bottles for collectors.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Dried persimmon sweetness with a clove accent.
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Palate: Orange marmalade and adzuki-bean sweetness.
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Finish: Long, with light smoke and spice.
Specifications
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Producer: Suntory, Yamazaki Distillery
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Style: Japanese Single Malt Whisky
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Expression / Batch: Story of the Distillery, 2026 Edition
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Proof / ABV: 86 proof (43% ABV)
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Cask / Finish: Mizunara, Spanish oak and American white oak casks
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Region: Yamazaki, Osaka, Japan
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Size: 700ml
How to Enjoy It
Serve it neat or with a splash of chilled water. It pairs with wagashi, roasted duck or dark chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What casks are used?
Predominantly Mizunara, Spanish oak and American white oak.
What is on the box?
Minase Falls, near the distillery, on Echizen washi paper.
What proof is it?
It is bottled at 43% ABV, or 86 proof.
Explore more in our Japanese Whisky collection.
