The ¥13,880 Whisky Lottery: A Ginza Bartender's Toast to Yamazaki 18, Hakushu 18, and Japan's Enduring Luxury

Photo by Angelyn Sanjorjo on Pexels

Good evening, esteemed patrons. Take a seat, if you please. The gentle clinking of ice against crystal, the soft murmur of conversation – these are the timeless melodies of a Ginza evening. Tonight, however, there's a particular buzz, a whisper of excitement that has been circulating amongst connoisseurs. It concerns a remarkable opportunity, a chance to acquire some of Japan's most coveted liquid treasures: the Whisky Lottery.

For a modest sum of ¥13,880, one might find themselves with a bottle that many dream of. It's a testament to the enduring allure of Japanese whisky, proving that even after the bustle of a Founding Festival, the spirit of luxury continues. As a bartender who has poured many a dram over the decades, I find myself reflecting on the stories held within these bottles. Each one is a journey, a testament to dedication, climate, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.

The Gems Awaiting Your Discovery

Let us consider the grand prizes, the whiskies that elevate this lottery beyond mere chance into an exploration of craft.

Yamazaki 18 Year: The Quintessence of Japanese Malt

Ah, Yamazaki 18 Year. To hold a glass of this is to hold a piece of history. Born in Japan's very first malt distillery, established by Suntory's founder, Shinjiro Torii, in 1923, Yamazaki is nestled in a region where three rivers converge. This unique climate, often shrouded in mist, provides the ideal conditions for long maturation. The philosophy here has always been to create a whisky that is distinctly Japanese, harmonizing tradition with innovation.

On the nose, expect an intricate dance of dried fruits – raisin, apricot – layered with a profound incense-like aroma, often attributed to the rare Mizunara oak casks. The palate is equally complex: rich and full-bodied, with notes of dark chocolate, coffee, and a whisper of sweet spice. It finishes long, elegant, and deeply satisfying. It is, in every sense, a masterpiece of balance and depth.

Hakushu 18 Year: The Forest Sanctuary

Then we turn our gaze to Hakushu 18 Year. A stark contrast to Yamazaki, yet equally magnificent. Hakushu is Suntory's "Forest Distillery," perched high in the Southern Japanese Alps. Established much later in 1973, its location is chosen for its pristine air and the exceptionally soft, pure meltwater that flows from the mountains. This environment imbues the whisky with a very different character.

Pour a dram, and you'll immediately notice its vibrant, almost verdant nature. The aroma is often described as fresh and herbaceous, with hints of mint, pine, and a subtle wisp of smoke, reminiscent of a forest after a gentle rain. On the palate, it is crisp and clean, yet surprisingly deep, with notes of citrus, green apple, and a delicate smokiness that adds complexity without overpowering. It is a whisky that refreshes and invigorates, a true reflection of its natural birthplace.

Akkeshi Rikka and Risshu: Hokkaido's Maritime Soul

Moving north to Hokkaido, we encounter the intriguing releases from the Akkeshi Distillery, such as Akkeshi Rikka and Akkeshi Risshu. A newer player in the Japanese whisky scene, Akkeshi has quickly garnered attention for its commitment to terroir. Located on the eastern coast of Hokkaido, its climate is strikingly similar to Islay, with a constant sea breeze and access to local peat.

The craftsmen at Akkeshi are dedicated to a "farm-to-bottle" philosophy, even growing their own barley. Their whiskies are known for a distinctive maritime character, often presenting a beautiful balance of peat smoke, saline notes, and a lively citrus zest. The "Rikka" (立夏) and "Risshu" (立秋) designations refer to seasonal releases, reflecting the subtle nuances that the changing seasons impart, perhaps a fresher, brighter profile for Rikka (early summer) and a more robust, autumnal character for Risshu (late summer/early autumn). Each sip transports you to the rugged, beautiful coast of Akkeshi.

Yoichi 10 Year: The Northern Powerhouse

Finally, we arrive at Yoichi 10 Year, a classic from Nikka Whisky, the brainchild of Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky. Taketsuru, having studied in Scotland, chose Yoichi, Hokkaido, for its resemblance to the Scottish Highlands – cold, coastal, and ideal for producing robust malt whisky. The distillery famously uses traditional coal-fired pot stills, a method rarely seen today, which imparts a unique depth and richness.

Yoichi is renowned for its powerful, peaty character. The aroma is often a bold declaration of smoke, sea breeze, and rich fruit, reminiscent of a classic Scotch. On the palate, it delivers a punchy yet refined experience: robust peat, a hint of briny sea salt, and underlying notes of ripe orchard fruits, all culminating in a long, warming finish. It is a whisky for those who appreciate strength and tradition, a true testament to Taketsuru's vision.

The Luxury Continues

The prospect of securing one of these bottles through the Whisky Lottery for ¥13,880 is indeed thrilling. It is a rare opportunity to taste the diverse landscapes and philosophies that define Japanese whisky. The fact that this luxury continues even after the Founding Festival speaks volumes about the passion that drives our distillers.

So, as you consider trying your luck, remember that each bottle is more than just a spirit; it's a narrative, a moment captured in time, waiting to be savored. Should you be so fortunate, I invite you to bring your bottle here, and we can raise a quiet glass to the artistry within. Kanpai.