Yamazaki 25YO Wins ISC 2026 Japanese Whisky Trophy

Suntory Brand Wins Top Japanese Whisky Category Trophy for Four Consecutive Years

House of Suntory's Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky 25 Years Old has been awarded the prestigious Trophy in the Japanese Whisky category at the International Spirits Challenge (ISC) 2026. This distinction marks the fourth consecutive year that Yamazaki whisky has claimed the competition's highest award in this category. Previous wins include Yamazaki 25 Years Old in 2023, Yamazaki 12 Years Old in 2024, and Yamazaki 18 Years Old in 2025. Suntory Global Spirits noted that this latest triumph solidifies Yamazaki's standing among global premium spirits and highlights the company's leadership in whisky craftsmanship.

Rigorous Blind Tasting and Reimagined Blending Philosophy

Each year, the International Spirits Challenge convenes an expert panel to conduct blind tastings, evaluating spirits on quality, balance, and distinctive style. In praising Yamazaki 25 Years Old, the ISC judges observed that there are compelling reasons why this Japanese whisky is globally recognized as a definitive benchmark for world-class spirits.

First released in 1999, this Japanese single malt underwent a recipe reimagining in 2021 to more clearly showcase the distillery's production philosophy. Suntory Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo explained that the reformulation focuses on expressing "Tsukuriwake" (diversity in whisky making) and "Tsukurikomi" (artisanal precision and meticulous craftsmanship). He stated that earning this accolade for the 25-year-old expression carries profound meaning for the entire team, celebrating both the continuity of generational craft and the distillery's commitment to relentless evolution while honoring its heritage.

Official Tasting Notes and Hakushu's Notable Honors

Regarding sensory character, official tasting notes describe Yamazaki 25 Years Old as displaying a deep amber hue. On the nose, it offers distinctive Mizunara incense smoke intertwined with ripe persimmon and plum aromas. On the palate, nuances of Mizunara sandalwood, rich persimmon sweetness, subtle tart plum, and spicy ginger emerge, culminating in a prolonged, smoky finish.

Alongside Yamazaki's premier honor, fellow portfolio brand Hakushu also delivered outstanding results, with both Hakushu 18 Years Old Peated Malt and Hakushu 25 Years Old capturing Double Gold medals. Furthermore, Suntory Spirits was named Japanese Whisky Producer of the Year for the seventh consecutive year, recognized for the extraordinary excellence across its portfolio.

📅 Release Date: 2026-10-07

🔗 Source: The Whiskey Wash