The Tsukuriwake Set 2024.
The House of Suntory recently unveiled the 2024 edition of its famed Tsukuriwake series for whisky fans in Malaysia at a special soiree held at Skillet KL. Hosted by Suntory brand ambassador Andrew Pang, the event saw the unveiling of a collection of four whiskies from the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries that reflects the meaning of the series’ name: “artisanship through a diversity of making”.
Through the new collection, Suntory chief blender Shinji Fukuyo has focused on different aspects within whisky making, to illuminate the tsukuriwake in Japanese whiskies. He’s the fifth Generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo, by the way, who was recently awarded Master Blender of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge 2024…
“Tsukuriwake is a Japanese term that means ‘artisanship through a diversity of making”, revealed Pang during his presentation to guests that night. “It’s a philosophy that the House of Suntory has embraced in this Tsukuriwake series of rare Japanese single malt whiskies. The series showcases the many elements that contribute to the making of Suntory’s whiskies, including the selection of ingredients, casks, and water.”
Suntory Brand Ambassador Andrew Pang.
Pang also goes on to say that Fukuyo had carefully outlined the approach he took to the new collection: “While past releases from the collection focused mainly on the details of the casks, the 2024 Tsukuriwake series emphasises the elements of whisky making, such as ingredient selection, peat, and cask. This series is the ultimate showcase of the incredible diversity of choices that goes into the making of Yamazaki and Hakushu whiskies.”
Making up the latest collection is the Yamazaki Golden Promise, Yamazaki Islay Peated Malt, Yamazaki 18 Years Old Mizunara and the Hakushu 18 Years Old Peated Malt. The Yamazaki Golden Promise uses the Scottish grain golden promise barley, for a distinctly meltier and richer profile. The whisky has been distilled from 2009 and aged in American oak. This was blended with a Yamazaki 12 Years Old for a deeper and more well-rounded flavour.
Then, the Yamazaki Islay Peated Malt similarly plays with a Scottish twist on Japanese whisky, using signature peat sourced from Islay to give a sweet and smoky effect. Tasting notes from Suntory highlight hints of brown sugar, orange citrus and followed by a warm, smoky finish.
The two other whiskies included in the collection were release during the House of Suntory’s 100th anniversary celebrations in 2023, now reissued for the collection with a limited-edition label. Yamazaki 18 Years Old Mizunara (2024 Tsukuriware Edition) is matured in mizunara – a Japanese oak that Suntory credits with imparting its signature spicy, sandalwood, and aloe flavours during the long maturation period for this expression.
Finally, the last ingredient in this new collection is the Hakushu 18 Years Old Peated Malt (2024 Tsukuriware Edition).
Through the Hakushu distillery, Suntory honours “the art of diverse blending”, developing and refining Japanese peated malt whisky. In the 18 Years Old Peated Malt, the tasting notes from Suntory lists pepperiness, herbaceous minerals, and apple, offering an interplay of freshness and subtle smokiness, with peppery undertones.
Interested? Well, this series is now available in Malaysia at select premium retailers and exclusive outlets like Kampachi EQ Kuala Lumpur, and The Chamber in Sunway Pyramid. With limited availability and high demand expected, enthusiasts are encouraged to act swiftly. More serious collectors can also purchase the entire series, making this a must-have for those serious about the art of whisky.
