The list of countries you consider great whiskey producers - Ireland, Scotland, America, Canada - may have just gotten longer. Because you might want to consider adding Japan to the list.


Yeah, Japan. Sure they're known more for sake or beer, but the whisky (they spell it without the "e", like Scotland and Canada), coming out of the East is rivaling that of its Western counterparts.

Suntory, a brand you may know their beer, makes the most popular whisky in Japan, and one you need to try. Using four ingredients - malted barley, pure water, yeast and noble oak casks - their Yamazaki Single Malts are distinctly Japanese, and employ some unique distilling techniques that set it apart from most whiskies you've probably had. Like the casks they use to age the whisky. Their 12 and 18 year-old single malts are aged in casks made from three different oaks - American, Spanish and Japanese - that add subtle flavors you won't find in other whiskies.

The Yamazaki 12 year old is medium-bodied with a mellow taste and the aromas of dried fruits and honey. The 18 year old is a copper-gold colored, full-bodied whisky with a spicy cherry-like flavor and a toffee aroma. And both have a smoothness that lend perfectly to drinking after dinner, up or on the rocks. And if you're looking for a drink to have with dinner, consider what the Japanese call "Mizuwari", whisky mixed with ice and water. It pairs well with sushi and other light dishes, and is a little more sophisticated than the usual sake or beer. Something to think about on your next date.

$45 - 12 Year Old
$120 - 18 Year Old
www.suntory.com