Yamazaki Unveils 25-Year Mizunara Whisky as Suntory Marks a Century of Japanese Distilling

The House of Suntory has announced the release of Yamazaki 25 Years Mizunara, its oldest single malt whisky matured entirely in Japanese Mizunara oak casks. This new expression marks a significant milestone for the Yamazaki distillery, which is recognized as the birthplace of Japanese whisky. The launch highlights both the rarity of Mizunara oak and the distillery’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation.

Mizunara oak, first used by Yamazaki in the 1940s, is known for its delicate grain and challenging nature. It requires expert handling and long maturation periods to reveal its full character. After at least a decade, Mizunara casks begin to impart distinctive aromas and flavors, including sandalwood, coconut, and subtle smoky incense. These qualities have made Mizunara-aged whiskies some of the most sought-after in the world.

Yamazaki 25 Years Mizunara stands out from previous releases by being fully matured in Mizunara casks, rather than partially aged as with earlier editions like the Yamazaki 55 Years. Each bottle is presented in a handcrafted case assembled using traditional Japanese joinery techniques that do not require nails, underscoring the attention to detail and respect for tradition.

Tasting notes for this whisky describe an aroma of apricot compote, creamy cocoa latte, and spices such as nutmeg and cardamom. On the palate, it offers a balance of spice and bittersweet orange with cream, leading to a complex finish marked by deep Mizunara wood tones and subtle herbal bitterness. Bottled at 48% ABV, Yamazaki 25 Years Mizunara is priced at approximately $7,000 and is aimed at collectors and connoisseurs.

This edition meets the standards set by the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association for authentic Japanese whisky: it is distilled, matured, and bottled entirely in Japan. The House of Suntory has confirmed that all its Japanese whisky intended for export meets these criteria.

Founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii with the establishment of the Yamazaki distillery near Kyoto, The House of Suntory has played a central role in shaping Japanese whisky culture. The legacy was continued by his son Keizo Saji, who expanded production with new distilleries such as Hakushu. Over generations, Suntory’s master blenders have balanced tradition with innovation to create whiskies known for their elegance and complexity.

Suntory’s reputation has been recognized internationally. The company has been named Distillery of the Year four times at the International Spirits Challenge in London. Recent accolades include Shinji Fukuyo being named Master Blender of the Year and Yamazaki 12 Years winning Supreme Champion Spirit 2024.

The Suntory portfolio includes well-known brands such as Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita, Kakubin, Hibiki, Toki, and Ao. The company also produces spirits like Roku Gin and Haku Vodka using Japanese ingredients and traditional methods.

In 2023, Suntory celebrated its centennial anniversary—a milestone not only for the brand but also for Japanese spirits as a whole. The release of Yamazaki 25 Years Mizunara reflects both this heritage and a continued dedication to quality that has defined The House of Suntory for over a century.