Gift Whisky from Japan

This past Christmas I had a number of friends visiting the States from Japan, and they all came to me with the same question: “What’s a good Japanese whisky to gift?”

My usual answer is it depends on the drinker’s taste or just get them Yamazaki. However, Suntory products are quite pricy and furthermore hard to find at times. One knew that the receiver likes smoky islays, so I suggested Nikka Yoichi. But here are two alternatives that aren’t too expensive nor hard to find.

1. KIRIN Fuji Sanroku 50

At 50% ABV and only about ¥1,500, this blend is super flavorful and way better than any j-whisky in that price range, like Suntory Kaku (which is good but not as great).

Find this on Amazon Japan for a similar price, so you can just ship it to your hotel instead of carrying it home from the store.

2. NIKKA from the Barrel

Another 51% ABV whisky that is the perfect blend of sweet and smoky. I found mine at Costco for ¥2,000, and the price is similar at other retailers like Don Quixote.

3. Japan-only Whiskies

There are a handful of bourbon offerings only available for the Japanese market, so these also make a good gift option, despite the fact you are just re-importing a whisky back to its homeland. My favorite bourbon to date is Blanton’s Red, and you can find it online for about ¥4500+shipping.