Hakushu Story of the Distillery 2026 Edition

The Hakushu Story of the Distillery 2026 Edition is a limited-release single malt from Suntory’s Hakushu Distillery and the third installment in the “Story of the Distillery” series. Released in May 2026, this edition celebrates Hakushu’s long-standing commitment to living in harmony with its surrounding forests, highlighting the distillery’s conservation efforts and the unique ecosystem that has shaped its whisky-making since its founding in 1973. Cask Type: Exclusively matured in ex-bourbon barrels using carefully selected smoky Hakushu malt, preserving the bright, delicate character for which the distillery is known while allowing the subtle peat influence to shine. Tasting Profile: Bright amber in color with aromas of pineapple, vanilla cream, and roasted hōjicha tea. The palate is light, soft, and gently sweet with wasanbon-like sugar notes and a hint of pleasant bitterness, culminating in a finish of lingering ember smoke and delicate bittersweetness. 700ml - 43% abv Compared with the 2025 Edition, the 2026 release retains its 100% ex-bourbon barrel maturation and smoky Hakushu malt foundation but shifts its storytelling focus toward the distillery’s relationship with the surrounding forest and wildlife, reinforcing the “forest distillery” identity that defines Hakushu.