Hinotori Single Malt – Hekinan Distillery (First Single Malt Release)

Hinotori is a recent offering from the revived Hekinan Distillery, located in Nagoya on the island of Honshu. The distillery originally founded in 1949 was dormant for many years but has restarted production, bringing fresh Japanese single malt whisky to market. This expression uses a mix of about 70% unpeated malt and 30% peated malt, offering a bridge between smoky and clean styles. The climate—humid subtropical with distinct seasons—and good fresh water from the Yahagi River contribute to the whisky’s development.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Pale gold with soft glimmers of straw.

Nose: Delicate and welcoming: orchard fruit (apple, pear), almond, vanilla pods, and a subtle hint of dry toast. The smoke is gentle thanks to the partial peated malt component.

Palate: Smooth and medium-bodied. You’ll find biscuit-like malt, peach, clean vanilla, a thread of caramel, and mild oak. The 30% peated malt brings in a whisper of smoke, balancing the sweetness.

Finish: Lingering warmth with vanilla, mild oak spice, and a gentle chocolate or cocoa nib note toward the end. Smoke fades softly, leaving just a trace.

Collector’s Note

Hinotori single malt is still relatively new and likely produced in limited volume; that gives it appeal for Japanese whisky collectors interested in the next generation distilleries, this is also the distilleries first single malt release. Its partial peat component makes it stand out among many whiskies which are either fully peated or not at all. Because the distillery has just restarted and is emphasising its history and revival, the story adds value for enthusiasts.

Technical Details

Distillery: Hekinan, Nagoya, Honshu, Japan

Type: Single Malt Whisky (70% unpeated, 30% peated malt)

ABV: 45%

Volume: 700ml

Climate: Humid subtropical, with pronounced seasonal variation