Japanese whisky has exploded in popularity in recent years, and drinkers around the globe have become increasingly interested in spirits from Japan. One such spirit that’s gaining attention is Yamazakura, a blended Japanese whisky that’s known for being approachable and easy to enjoy.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Yamazakura Black Label, exploring its history, how it’s made, what it tastes like, and the debate around its authenticity as a “Japanese” whisky.
The History and Heritage of Sasanokawa Shuzo
To understand the Yamazakura whisky, it’s important to know the history of the distillery behind it: Sasanokawa Shuzo.
Founding and Early Years
Sasanokawa Shuzo was founded in 1765. Initially, the company focused on brewing sake. After World War II, the company obtained a license to produce whisky, and the first bottles were distilled in 1946.
Yamazakura Brand Development
Sasanokawa Shuzo released the Yamazakura Black Label in 2015. The Yamazakura brand aims to produce accessible and approachable whiskies for a wide audience.
Yamazakura Black Label: Production and Characteristics
Yamazakura Black Label is a blended whisky, meaning it’s made from a combination of malt and grain whiskies. Malt whisky is made from malted barley, while grain whisky can be made from other grains, such as corn, wheat, or rye. The Yamazakura Black Label uses imported grain whisky, which is one reason why some people question whether it should be labeled as a true Japanese whisky.
Sasanokawa Shuzo uses particular distillation methods, employing pot stills to produce their whisky. After distillation, the whisky is matured in casks, often ex-bourbon barrels or sherry casks.
Yamazakura Black Label is bottled at 40% ABV, which is a fairly standard alcohol content for blended whiskies. It’s available in 700ml bottles.
Tasting Notes and Sensory Profile
If you get the chance to sample Yamazakura, here’s what to look for:
Nose
The first aromas you’ll notice are lactic notes, along with grains, a bit of smoke, and a touch of honey. As you swirl the glass, you may also get a whiff of fruit, especially green apple.
Palate
Yamazakura’s texture is smooth, and the first taste is subtly smoky. You’ll notice a balance of sweet, fruity, and smoky flavors.
Finish
The finish is sweet, with a light to medium body that lingers on the tongue.
The Authenticity Debate and Market Position
Like many Japanese whiskies, Yamazakura has found itself embroiled in a debate over what exactly constitutes “Japanese whisky.” Because the rules weren’t clearly defined in the past, some distilleries used imported grain whisky in their blends, raising questions about authenticity.
Some whisky drinkers feel this practice detracts from the “Japanese” character of the spirit, while others are more forgiving, especially if the distillery is transparent about its practices.
Yamazakura is primarily available in Japan, with limited distribution internationally. You can expect to pay around ¥3,000 for a bottle, making it a relatively affordable option in the world of Japanese whisky.
Putting It All Together
Yamazakura Black Label is known for its smooth taste, gentle smokiness, and easy-drinking character. It’s a Japanese whisky that welcomes newcomers while still offering enough depth for seasoned whisky drinkers.
Whether you’re sipping it neat, mixing it in a highball, or sharing it with friends, Yamazakura fits the bill.
Even though there’s debate about its authenticity, Yamazakura Black Label offers good value and a pleasant introduction to Japanese whisky.