Editor’s Note: This whisky was provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link in this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
In late Spring of this year, Fuji Whisky released a new Japanese whisky in the U.S. Simply named Fuji Japanese Whisky, this expression marks the creation of a new category of whisky in Japan known as Single Blended Japanese Whisky.
In partnership with Distinguished Vineyards, Fuji Whisky made its U.S. launch in 2021 with the release of Fuji Single Grain Japanese Whiskey. Fuji Whisky is produced in the Mt. Fuji Distillery which was established in 1973. The distillery is located 7.5 miles from the peak of Mt. Fuji, which is the highest mountain in Japan.
Mt. Fuji Distillery has distinguished itself as the world’s only distillery to create three styles of grain whisky along with a Scotch style malt whisky from start to finish on a single estate. The three grain whisky styles include American (Bourbon), Canadian, and Scottish. Fuji Whisky is the only whisky in Japan that utilizes Mt. Fuji’s snowmelt, which makes a 50-year journey from the tip of Mt. Fuji to the aquifer that lies 330-feet below the distillery.
The inspiration for the spirits produced by Mt. Fuji Distillery lies in the terroir of the area around Mt. Fuji. Because of their innovative use of the distillery’s natural surroundings, all of which takes place in a single location, along with the creation of new categories of whisky, Fuji Whisky and Master Blender Jota Tanaka have sought category recognition from the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (“JSLMA”).
“This unique expression marks a special moment for FUJI Whisky and our Mt. Fuji Distillery as its release signifies FUJI as the pioneer of single blended Japanese whiskies,” said Jota Tanaka, Master Blender in a prepared statement. “To be recognized by the JSLMA is an honor and I am excited to continue to grow the line of FUJI expressions on a global scale. Our FUJI Japanese Whisky is truly an exceptional gift; one which reflects the impact of, and patient aging in the beautiful environment that surrounds Mt. Fuji, highlighting the control we can have over each element of production, embracing the distillation techniques that set us apart and make us truly one of a kind.”
Fuji Japanese Whisky is a single site blended expression made from a blend of 100% Japanese whiskies. It’s aged for around 8 years in new American white oak barrels before being bottled at 86 proof. According to Master Blender Tanaka’s tasting notes, you can expect delicate fruity aromas of peach, apricot, and orange liqueur, with a hint of honey and oatmeal cookies. The palate offers more delicate yet vivid fruits like Williams pear, apricot, and white table grapes.
Fuji Japanese Whisky is available in the following U.S. markets: California, Texas, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Georgia, and Florida with an SRP of $70 for a 700 ml bottle.
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Tasting Notes: Fuji Japanese Whisky
Vital Stats: 86 proof (43% ABV), 750 ml bottle MSRP $70.
Appearance: Rich gold.
Nose: Soft fragrant, floral notes of ginger, citrus, and vanilla, with hints of cinnamon and buttery toffee.
Palate: On the palate are subtle notes of honeysuckle, peach, and wildflowers, with hints of lush green grass, and fresh mountain spring water.
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