Japanese Whiskeys You Should Try

Whiskey has been produced for centuries around the world. Despite its global appeal, Japanese whiskey is still a relatively new industry. It is, however, a booming one. Japanese whiskeys are taking the liquor industry by storm, and distillers in Japan have been trying to keep up with the demand, often resulting in rare and expensive blends. Over the past few years, Japanese brands have increased their supply to meet this demand, and some of the most exciting brands and blends can be found at Joe Canal's in Lawrenceville, NJ. Let's look at what Japanese whiskey brings to the table.

What Is Japanese Whiskey?

Japanese whiskey, as a relatively newer product, is currently not subject to the strict restrictions that other whiskeys around the world are. While this is anticipated to change in the coming years, some current Japanese whiskeys are considered "world whiskeys," as they contain whiskeys produced in other areas of the world and bottled in Japan.

When it comes to taste, Japanese whiskeys provide some distinct flavors. This is, in part, because the industry was isolated for many years, focusing solely on Japanese tastes and using pure water sourced in Japan for crispness – unlike other varieties. Japanese brands appeal to these tastes, providing a wide range of styles from peated to sherry-cask influenced to floral and light. The result is a spirit that is softer, more delicate, and more approachable than traditional scotch, making it great for drinking on the rocks or mixing with other ingredients.

Japanese Whiskey Blends at Joe Canal's

We offer a selection of Japanese whiskey blends from some of the top brands. From Mars to Ohishi to Yamato, we have something special for every taste. Take a look at what these smooth spirits have to offer:

• Ohishi: This popular brand is known for using high-quality rice from the Kuma-Gun region. They store their products in sherry or brandy casks to mature, resulting in distinct flavor notes. The 10-Year Brandy Cask Whiskey provides a pleasant, floral scent and offers hints of orchard fruits such as pears and apples, while its 8-Year Sherry Cask Whiskey combines subtle yet tasteful flavors of dried fruit, nutmeg, cinnamon, and tobacco.
• Mars Shinshu: Located in the Japanese South Alps, Mars Shinshu features some truly tempting offerings. Its Iwai brand is designed to provide affordable blends of malt and grain whiskey aged in ex-bourbon, sherry, wine, and sakura (Japanese cherry wood) casks. Iwai 45 is bursting with a mix of flavors, including apricot, spice, honey, vanilla, and white chocolate, and offers aromas of citrus and exotic woods. Tsunuki Peated provides a feel of peated Highland scotch, with notes of maple syrup, dried apricot, sandalwood, and more to set it apart.
• Mars Maltage Cosmo: At 43% ABV, this flavorful formula combines whiskey aged in sherry butts and liquid aged in ex-bourbon barrels. The result will leave notes of dried fruit, orange, and chocolate on your palate. This offering is great on its own but can also be used for your favorite cocktails. Grab a bottle of Wine Cask Finish, and try it in an Old Fashioned.

We even feature Japanese whiskeys from other popular brands to give you plenty of options. Our selection includes Fuji, Fukano, Kujira, Shinobu, and Yamato, and we have 700 and 750 ml bottles so you can stay well-stocked.

Try Our Offerings at Joe Canal's

As Japanese whiskey continues to gain popularity and more distillers craft these exceptional spirits, it will be hard to ignore this budding industry. At Joe Canal's in Lawrenceville, NJ, we have a generous selection of Japanese whiskey, along with other spirits, wine, and beer. Our expert staff will help you choose the styles that are right for your tastes and, if you're unable to make the drive, we offer delivery to local customers. Joe Canal's even offers shipping throughout the state, allowing you to pick your favorites and have them delivered to your door. Contact us today if you have any questions or visit our Lawrenceville location at 3375 US Route 1 South.