For a non-regular whisky drinker, the difference between Japanese and other whiskies might not be obvious, though typically, they are slightly lighter. But even if you’re an advanced whisky drinker, it wouldn’t go amiss to explore the unique world of Japanese whisky.

The main feature of the Japanese whisky business is the smattering of small companies that make whiskies on the side and sell them locally. The Japanese call these bottles “ji-whisky” (meaning local whisky.) They tend not to be comparable to the larger makers in quality but can nevertheless be charming in their own right.