Japan’s Hakata Whisky is prized for its umami flavors, and now you can find it in the U.S. thanks to Impex Beverages.
A statement from Impex explains that Hakata Whisky is distilled and matured in Fukuoka, Japan by the Hikari Distillery, founded in 1912.
The mash bill of the whisky is 100 percent barley, and a fraction of this barley saw a touch of koji, fermentation made from grains or legumes. The distiller notes that fermenting with koji helps provide healthy enzymes that in turn create that savory taste known as umami.

Japan’s Hakata Whisky is prized for its umami flavors, and now you can find it in the U.S. thanks to Impex Beverages. (image via Impex)
The Sherry casks this whisky is aged in are kept in traditional style warehouses, as well as a few open-air warehouses where they are exposed to humid summer weather and winter temperatures as low as 38°F.
Impex’s tasting notes for the Hakata lineup:
The 10-Year-Old
- The workhorse of the collection, the full flavor and authentic spirit-forward character introduces the distillery tone and elements in pure potential fashion.
- 42% ABV
The 12-Year-Old
- Oak and umami defined, a classic incantation between koji and malt creates complete balance within harmony and spice.
- 42% ABV
The 16-Year-Old
- Painted beyond the canvas, this expression has no limits allowing each note to bend beyond its lane producing a truly unique experience.
- 42% ABV
The 18-Year-Old
- Glorious and decadent. Become completely immersed within lavished luxury delivered by massive essence, style, and flavor.
- 42% ABV
For more information or to find a bottle, check out www.hakatawhisky.com.
Related Articles

The GlenAllachie Adds Three Single Malts With Unique Finishes
New Coffee Old Fashioned Comes To Crafthouse Cocktails’ Lineup
Blue Run Spirits Previews New Kentucky Whiskey Distillery
Weldon Mills Distillery Developing Bourbon For Minor League Durham Bulls
Bourbon Becomes Coors’ Next American Whiskey Focus
New Ragged Branch Limited Bourbon Celebrates 50 Years Since Secretariat’s Run
Fireball Whisky Bringing Spice To Fairway With New Contest
Whiskey maker Wolves Has New Still, Malted Barley Expressions
Gary Carter
Gary Carter has been at the helm of metro newspapers, magazines, and television news programs as well as a radio host and marketing manager. He is a writer/editor/photographer/designer by trade, with more than 30 years experience in the publishing and marketing field. Gary enjoys working to build something great, whether...