In 1923, Shinjiro Torii, founder of the Suntory drinks group, realised his vision of a whisky capturing the essence of Japanese nature - at the foot of Mount Tenno, in the small town of Yamazaki near Osaka, Japan's first whisky distillery was built. To give his vision professional weight, Torii brought aboard the young Masataka Taketsuru, who had previously studied chemistry and distilling in Scotland, appointing him factory director in 1924. The first bottling, "Shirofuda" (White Label), appeared in 1929 - but was initially shunned by the Japanese public, who were used to milder, subtler flavours than the Scottish-influenced style. It wasn't until 1937, with the softer Kakubin, that Suntory achieved its breakthrough in the domestic market.

Why was the first Yamazaki whisky initially rejected?

The 1929 "Shirofuda" leaned heavily on the bold Scottish style - but Japanese consumers preferred milder, subtler flavours, so the whisky initially flopped. Only the softer Kakubin brought commercial success in 1937.

What role did Masataka Taketsuru play at Yamazaki?

Taketsuru, who had studied distilling in Scotland, was appointed the distillery's first factory director in 1924, laying the technical foundation for Japanese whisky - before later going his own way with Nikka and the Yoichi distillery.

Flavour profile

Taste: Elegant and layered with ripe fruit, honey and a fine spice reminiscent of Japanese mizunara oak - more balanced and subtle than many Scotch malts.

Recommended enjoyment: Neat, or as a highball with soda, the traditional Japanese way to enjoy it.

Start with Yamazaki 12 Year Old.

Facts and figures

Founded 1923 by Shinjiro Torii in Yamazaki near Osaka - Japan's first whisky distillery. First distillation 1924, first bottling 1929 ("Shirofuda"). First factory director: Masataka Taketsuru. Part of the Suntory group.