🥃
Asaka

Yamazakura Asaka Single Malt

山桜 安積 シングルモルト

Category
Single Malt
ABV
50%
Price Range
$50 – $100
Volume
700ml
Cask Type
ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, mizunara
✓ JSLMA Certified Japanese Whisky

About

The core single malt expression from Asaka Distillery in Fukushima Prefecture, operated by Sasanokawa Shuzo (one of Japan's oldest whisky license holders, dating back to 1946). Named Yamazakura ("mountain cherry blossom"), the brand reflects the natural beauty of the Tohoku region. A variety of cask types including mizunara oak give this whisky a distinctly Japanese character.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Soft orchard fruit, honey, and gentle oak with a hint of cherry blossom and subtle spice. Clean and inviting.

Palate

Medium bodied with apple, pear, and malt sweetness. Mizunara influence adds a distinctive sandalwood and incense note. Balanced and harmonious.

Finish

Medium length with gentle spice, fruit, and a clean oak finish.

What People Are Saying

Positive reviews from Japanese consumers who appreciate the Tohoku character and reasonable pricing. The clean, fruit forward profile makes it accessible.

An underrated distillery with deep history. The Yamazakura brand is gaining recognition as Asaka invests in expansion. The mizunara cask influence is subtle but adds Japanese character. Good value compared to more hyped brands.

Community opinions collected from public forums and review sites. These are not our own ratings.

How to Enjoy

Enjoyable neat, on the rocks, or in a highball. The clean profile and moderate ABV make it versatile across serving styles.