Whisky Finder
Find Authentic Japanese Whisky (JSLMA Verified)
Not everything labeled "Japanese whisky" is actually made in Japan. Before 2021, there were no rules. Companies could import bulk Scotch, bottle it in Osaka, and sell it as Japanese whisky. Some still do.
The JSLMA (Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association) certification changed that. Certified whiskies must be fermented, distilled, and aged for at least 3 years in Japan using Japanese water. This quiz focuses on bottles that meet that standard.
Whisky Finder
Find Your Japanese Whisky
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is JSLMA certified Japanese whisky? +
JSLMA (Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association) certification means the whisky was fermented, distilled, and matured for at least 3 years in Japan, using water extracted in Japan. It's the industry standard for what qualifies as genuine Japanese whisky, established in 2021.
Which Japanese whisky brands are JSLMA certified? +
All whiskies from Suntory (Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki, Chita, Toki, Kakubin), most Nikka products (From The Barrel, Yoichi, Miyagikyo, Taketsuru), Mars/Iwai, Akkeshi, Chichibu, Kanosuke, and several other genuine Japanese distilleries are JSLMA certified.
Are non JSLMA whiskies bad? +
Not necessarily. Some excellent whiskies like Nikka Coffey Malt don't meet the strict definition due to production methods. Others like Ichiro's Malt & Grain intentionally blend international whiskies with Japanese ones. The key is knowing what you're buying. Non certified bottles that use imported base spirits without disclosure are the ones to be cautious about.