JP-STR-023 Suntory Hokuto 12 years old

🥃 Suntory Hokuto 12 Years Old – Overview

Suntory Hokuto 12 Years Old is a Japanese pure‑malt/blended‑malt whisky combining malt whiskies from the Hakushu and Yamazaki distilleries. Known for its smooth, approachable character, it showcases subtle fruitiness, gentle oak, and creamy texture — a lighter, elegant expression in Suntory’s range.

🔑 Key Details

• Brand: Suntory

• Expression: Hokuto 12 Years Old (Pure Malt / Blended Malt)

• Type: Japanese Pure Malt / Blended Malt Whisky

• ABV: 40%

• Bottle Size: ~660 ml

• Origin: Japan (Hakushu & Yamazaki distilleries)

• Special Feature: Bamboo‑charcoal filtration for extra smoothness; designed as an easy‑drinking, balanced whisky

📦 Packaging & Presentation

• Bottle: Black-labeled, modest and elegant design

• Size: Typically 660 ml

• Packaging varies by batch; collectible due to discontinued production

• Premium yet simple presentation reflecting its approachable style

🏆 Collectibility & Rarity

• Production Period: Launched around 2004

• Discontinued: Late 2009 / early 2010

• Current Status: Rare and collectible; mostly available via secondary markets or specialty collectors

• Ideal For: Whisky enthusiasts, collectors, and fans of smooth Japanese malt

👃 Tasting Notes

• Nose: Fresh citrus, tropical fruits (lime, melon, peach), gentle floral hints, honey, vanilla, light oak

• Palate: Velvety smooth, creamy; flavors of lime syrup, pineapple, soft spice, nutty tones, caramelized toffee, malty sweetness

• Finish: Medium length, warm and dry; lingering notes of mint, nuts, and oak

• Overall Impression: Balanced, approachable, fruit- and oak-driven; lighter than heavily peated or sherried whiskies

🥄 Serving Suggestions

• Neat: Ideal to enjoy its delicate fruit and creamy texture

• With Water: Opens subtle floral and fruit notes

• On the Rocks: Softens the palate while keeping smooth character

• Occasion: Casual sipping or an introduction to Japanese malt whiskies

🌟 Review & Appreciation Highlights

• Smooth, easy-drinking, and fruit-forward Japanese pure malt

• Pleasant maltiness with soft, creamy mouthfeel despite modest ABV

• Highly collectible due to discontinued production

• A gentle contrast to more intense single malts, perfect for those who enjoy subtlety and balance