For many whisky lovers, Japanese whisky represents a good value for the price and also boasts a taste profile that simply cannot be replicated by the Irish, Scottish, or Americans. However, since the early 2000s the landscape for Japanese whisky has changed a bit as the prices have become more elevated as this wonderful whisky has gained in popularity.
For those living in Singapore, Japanese whisky is available, but you are going to be paying a bit of a higher price for it. Jap whisky Singapore is bound by the local liquor laws of the country that result in both beer and spirits having a higher price tag when compared to other countries. Additionally, because of the popularity of Jap whisky in Singapore, retailers charge a bit more in order to make a profit.
Here are some of the brands of Japanese Whisky you can find in Singapore.
Yamazaki
Yamazaki distillery has been in operation for almost a century and is known as the one that started the revolution as it was one of the very first Japanese companies to start offering great tasting whisky. The core offerings from Yamazaki can be difficult to find as they tend to sell out quickly. Some of the most popular whiskies include:
● The Yamazaki Distiller’s Reserve
● The Yamazaki 12 Years Old
● The Yamazaki 18 Years Old
● The Yamazaki 25 Years Old
Hakushu
The Hakushu distillery is one of the newer ones available. The herbal and smoky notes have provided many fans. The core range of whisky is similar to that of Yamazaki and include:
● The Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve
● The Hakushu 12 Years Old
● The Hakushu 18 Years Old
● The Hakushu 25 Years Old
Hibiki
Hibiki is the winner when it comes to blended whiskies. The blend of malt and grain whisky is extremely popular as it offers a wonderful tasting whisky that many truly enjoy. Some of the top choices from Hibiki that are available in Singapore include:
● Hibiki Japanese Harmony
● Hibiki 12 Years Old
● Hibiki 17 Years Old
● Hibiki 21 Years Old
● Hibiki 30 Years Old
Other Japanese Whisky
Hombo Shuzo’s Mars Whisky and the Komagatake line of single malts are also available in Singapore. You will want to make sure that you grab these quickly when you see them because they get bought up quickly as soon as they are released.
Ichiro is a cult brand that also circulates throughout Singapore. This popular brand is highly in demand, especially Ichiro’s Malt and Grain blended world whisky. The ABV of this whisky is 46 percent and offers a natural color. The whisky does not undergo chill-filtration, which is one item that many whisky enthusiasts throughout the world enjoy. This brand can be quite difficult to find because it is so popular, so if you see it at your favorite store, make sure that you grab the bottle right away.
Buying Japanese Whisky in Singapore
There are many shops and bars located throughout the country that are selling most of the popular brands of Japanese whisky in Singapore. If you are looking to purchase a bottle of your favorite brand, you should know that the price you pay in Singapore is going to be a bit inflated based on several factors, including the taxes that are placed on this type of whisky as well as the retailers simply trying to make some extra money.
Another reason for the inflation of prices is simply supply and demand. With a couple of brands being discontinued, there simply is not enough of these great Japanese whiskies available to meet the current demand in Singapore. This is especially true because traveling to Japan to get your favorite brand of Jap whisky has not been much of an option.
If you are a fan of Japanese whisky, grab what you can when you can. If you want to save some money, chances are a trip to Japan is worth it as the price is a bit cheaper there. However, travel right now is tricky, so paying the extra price in Singapore is often worth it.