Japanese whisky is a relatively new addition to Japan's repertoire and, being modeled after the Scotch tradition, is double distilled and malted before it is set to age in wooden barrels. Japanese whiskies are drier than their American counterparts, which are sweeter. This Japanese liquor has a smoky flavor and is available as single malts as well as blended whisky.

Many Japanese distilleries import ingredients from Scotland and use malted or peated barley. Japanese whisky has a distinct taste due to the particularities in the distillation process. The water source, the shape of distillation stills and the type of wood used in the barrels make a lot of difference. While some distillers use imported barrels, others use ones that are made locally from Japanese Mizunara oak.

Since Japanese distilleries import many ingredients from Scotland, it must taste similar to Scotch, so what's the real difference? Scotch tastes how it has always tasted throughout several centuries. Distillers in Scotland focus on the consistency of the drink and pack in a smoky flavor. On the other hand, Japanese distilleries continuously refine their product to upgrade it, leading to whiskies that taste more delicate. Hence, Japanese whisky could be viewed as more elegant.

Since Japanese whisky is relatively new on the liquor scene, it's sometimes hard to acquire. The most popular distilleries in Japan are Nikka and Suntory. Online delivery options Drizly are currently one of the best places to find this flavorful drink.

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