The House of Suntory has unveiled the 2024 edition of its Tsukuriwake series. The collection of four whiskies from the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries reflects the meaning of its name: “artisanship through a diversity of making”.

Through the new collection, Suntory chief blender Shinji Fukuyo has focused on different aspects within whisky making, to illuminate the tsukuriwake in Japanese whiskies.

Fukuyo outlined the approach he took to the new collection: “While past releases from the collection focused mainly on the details of the casks, the 2024 Tsukuriwake series emphasises the elements of whisky making, such as ingredient selection, peat, and cask. This series is the ultimate showcase of the incredible diversity of choices that goes into the making of Yamazaki and Hakushu whiskies.”

Comprising the collection is Yamazaki Golden Promise, Yamazaki Islay Peated Malt, Yamazaki 18 Years Old Mizunara, and Hakushu 18 Years Old Peated Malt.

Yamazaki Golden Promise uses the Scottish grain golden promise barley, for a “meltier, richer” profile. The whisky has been distilled from golden promise since 2009 and aged in American oak. This was blended with a Yamazaki 12 Years Old for the “deep and rounded” flavour.

The Yamazaki Islay Peated Malt similarly plays with a Scottish twist on Japanese whisky, using peat sourced from Islay to give a sweet and smoky effect. Tasting notes from Suntory highlight brown sugar, orange citrus, and a warm, smoky finish.