Whisky

Five real alternatives to Hibiki Harmony for when it is sold out or overpriced, from the nearest Suntory-style substitute to a budget option for testing the waters.

Five whisky decanters worth buying for a Japanese whisky home bar, from a classic budget-friendly pick to a Japanese-inspired crystal set, plus an honest look at whether decanting actually does anything.

A deep dive into Nikka Coffey Grain, the Miyagikyo grain whisky built on 1960s Scottish Coffey stills, covering its history, tasting notes, and whether it’s worth the step up from Toki or Iwai.

Five real, in-stock ice ball molds for drinking Japanese whisky on the rocks, from a simple everyday pick to complete home bar sets and gift options.

A deep dive into Nikka From the Barrel — the 1985 concept behind it, what’s actually in the blend, the new 40th anniversary Extra Marriage edition, and whether it’s worth the intensity.

A deep dive into Suntory Toki — what it’s actually made of, whether it’s genuine Japanese Whisky under JSLMA rules, how it compares to Toki Black, and whether it’s worth buying.

Nikka and Suntory both trace back to the same 1920s partnership before a falling-out split them apart. Here’s how their whisky styles actually differ, and which one to try first.

Five real, in-stock glasses for drinking Japanese whisky at home, from an authentic Japan-made Edo Kiriko glass to a budget pick, with honest notes on which are actually made in Japan.