Since Japan's historic Suntory celebrated its landmark 100th anniversary in 2023 from when it first started distilling whiskies in Japan in 1923 - which also marks the start of the Japanese whisky story as a whole - it's sought to continue the work of keeping alive the artistry behind its two most famous distilleries, Yamazaki and Hakushu. 

To that end, Suntory had in 2024 debuted a pair of releases from these two distilleries under the banner of "Story of the Distillery" - it's since become an annual fixture, with a pair of releases in 2024, 2025 and now 2026.

The Story of the Distillery releases are aimed at showcasing the more subtle element that make up Suntory's two iconic distilleries, from its historic architecture to its natural surroundings.

The theme it seems for 2026's Story of the Distillery (the series' third installment) appears to revolve around the distillery's surroundings being an ideal location for whiskymaking, and so let's take a closer look!

Yamazaki Story Of The Distillery 2026

The Yamazaki Story Of The Distillery 2026 comes in a presentation box (with also its label) made of Echizen washi paper, that depicts Minase Falls, which is a popular sightseeing location nearby the Yamazaki Distillery. The whisky also comes with a leaflet that documents various stories surrounding the Yamazaki Distillery. Suntory states that "This is a bottle that we hope you will enjoy while feeling the power of nature that nurtures the delicate yet powerful aroma and flavor of "Yamazaki." It is bottled at 43% ABV, and is priced at 17,600 Yen, and will be released on 26 May 2026 (ballot runs from 16th March - 16th April 2026).

Official Tasting Notes

Color: Reddish amber color

Aroma: Dried persimmon (rich sweetness), accented with clove.

Taste: Rich and complex, with the sweetness of orange marmalade and red beans.

Finish: A complex, lingering finish with smoky and spicy notes.

Hakushu Story Of The Distillery 2026

The Hakushu Story Of The Distillery 2026 comes in a presentation box (with also its label) made of Echizen washi paper as well, here featuring wild birds visiting the bird sanctuary that resides within the Hakushu Distillery. Here, the whisky is made with smoky Hakushu malt whiskies aged in Bourbon barrels that have been meticulously blended. It is bottled at 43% ABV, and is priced at 17,600 Yen, and will be released on 26 May 2026 (ballot runs from 16th March - 16th April 2026).

Official Tasting Notes

Color: Bright amber

Aroma: Pineapple, vanilla cream, roasted green tea

Taste: Light, soft, with a sweetness reminiscent of wasanbon sugar and a subtle bitterness.

Finish: The smoke of embers, a bittersweet taste

 

Kanpai!

 

88 Bamboo Editorial Team