Scotland’s Tradition of Trading and Exchanging Spirit vs. Japan’s In-House Production Approach

In Scotland, there is a long history of buying, selling, and exchanging new-make spirit between distilleries, which has been essential in crafting blended whiskies. Japan, however, follows a different path. Companies like Suntory and Nikka have traditionally produced a wide range of spirits entirely within their own operations, completing the entire production process in-house.

Looking ahead, one may wonder whether a new category—a world of Japanese malt blended whiskies—will emerge. While there are certainly business challenges to this, considering the diversity and future possibilities of Japanese whisky could open exciting new horizons.