Suntory Whisky Toki Review

In 2016, the House of Suntory exclusively introduced this Japanese blended whisky to the U.S. market. It is made up of malt and grain whiskies from the company's three distilleries, Yamazaki, Chita, and Hakushu. Our reviewers highlight how good it is for the money and how its lighter flavor and body make it great in highballs.

In-Depth Review of Suntory Toki Japanese Whisky: Tasting Notes, Production, and HistoryTasting Notes of Suntory TokiColor

Suntory Toki presents a beautiful straw gold hue, inviting drinkers with its radiant appearance.

Nose

Upon first sniff, the nose is greeted with a delightful medley of aromas. Notable scents include:

• Honey and cream
• Lightly toasted buckwheat
• Honeysuckle and green apple skin
• Herbal notes of thyme and citrus hints
• Sweet fragrances of vanilla, shortbread, and pear
• A touch of walnut and a hint of wet earth, alongside a slight warmth

Palate

The palate offers a vibrant experience with:

• Refreshing notes of grapefruit and green apple
• A delightful combination of peppermint, herbs, and lemon zest
• Subtle flavors of vanilla pod, young oak, ginger, and clove
• A comforting undertone of honey and porridge

Finish

The finish is subtly sweet and spicy, revealing:

• Prominent notes of vanilla and oak
• A kick of pepper and green peppercorn
• Refreshing grapefruit pith

Suggested Uses

Suntory Toki is versatile and is best enjoyed:

• In highballs
• On the rocks

Similar Bottles

For those exploring similar flavors, consider:

• Akashi White Oak
• Dewars White Label
• Johnnie Walker Black Label
• Ichiro’s Malt & Grain
• Mars Iwai and Mars Iwai 45

Expert Review

All of our taste panel members agree that Suntory Toki offers exceptional value. It's particularly well-suited for highballs, making it an ideal choice for both casual drinkers and enthusiasts.

Taste and Versatility

Julia Momosé notes that Toki is a well-made and balanced Japanese blended whisky, appealing to both American whiskey drinkers and those new to the world of Japanese whisky. Kenta Goto states that it’s a go-to choice at bars for highballs due to its lightness and compatibility with carbonation. Jacques Bezuidenhout describes it as a "perfect summertime sipper."

The reviewers appreciate the soft and bright tones in the whisky—such as cream, green apple, and honeysuckle—coupled with a lively spirit that carries a good finish. Momosé emphasizes Toki’s versatility, making it suitable not just for highballs but also for various cocktails that highlight its brighter tones.

Mixed Drinks

While the finish may not be as long as that of some other whiskies, the value for mixed drinks is exceptional. Bezuidenhout suggests that Toki “over-delivers at this price point,” making it a top choice for those looking for a reliable whisky that enhances cocktails without overwhelming the palate.

Production Process

Suntory Toki is a carefully crafted blend of malt and grain whiskies sourced from Suntory's renowned Hakushu, Yamazaki, and Chita distilleries. The whisky features:

• Hakushu single malt aged in American white oak
• Chita single grain whisky, column-distilled for a lighter profile
• Yamazaki single malts aged in both American and Spanish oak

Unlike traditional Suntory blends that typically emphasize single malts, Toki focuses on Chita grain whisky combined with Hakushu single malt, resulting in a unique flavor profile.

History of Suntory

Founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii and Masataka Taketsuru, Suntory established Japan’s first malt whisky distillery, Yamazaki, inspired by Scotch whisky traditions. The company began selling whisky in 1934 and has since expanded significantly, opening the Chita Distillery in 1972 and the Hakushu Distillery in 1973.

In 2014, Suntory made headlines by acquiring American company Beam Inc. for approximately $16 billion, becoming the third-largest spirits producer globally. Released in 2016, Suntory Toki was marketed primarily for highballs, targeting the U.S. and Canadian markets.

Conclusion

Suntory Toki Japanese Whisky offers an exceptional balance of flavors, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Its versatility in cocktails, combined with its appealing taste profile, makes it a must-try for anyone interested in exploring the world of Japanese whisky. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a highball, Toki delivers a refreshing experience that is sure to impress.