Did you know that March 27 is International Whisk(e)y Day? This year, I’m partnering with Hatozaki to celebrate by making a highball with Hatozaki Finest Whisky.
Whisk(e)y is a big category, a fact that is emphasized by that “e” in parentheses. The spirit is spelled “whiskey” when referring to American or Irish whiskey, but “whisky” when we’re talking about Scotch, Canadian, or – in the case of Hatozaki – Japanese whisky. Japanese whisky in particular is rapidly increasing in popularity around the world, and a variety of brands and bottles are finally becoming available to consumers in the United States. Where you used to only see a couple of bottles on the liquor store shelf, you now have dozens to choose from. And that can be a daunting task for those unfamiliar with the category.
If you’re interested in dipping your toe into the world of Japanese whisky, Hatozaki Finest is a great place to start. Priced around $40, it’s an accessible but still elevated option. It’s a very light whisky, with delicate flavors of melon, apricot, citrus, and honey. You could absolutely sip it neat, but I think it really shines in cocktails like this Matcha Tea Highball, compliments of the brand. The honey and citrus compliment the flavor of the whiskey beautifully, and the matcha is a perfect nod to its Japanese origins.
Matcha Tea Highball
1.5 oz. Hatozaki Finest Whisky
1/2 oz. honey syrup (1:1 honey & water)
1/2 oz. lemon juice
1/4 tsp. matcha tea powder
Club soda, to top
Combine whisky, honey syrup, lemon juice, and matcha powder in a shaker. Fill with ice and shake until chilled. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with club soda. Stir gently and garnish with a lemon twist.
This post is sponsored by Marussia Beverages. All opinions are my own.
Recipe courtesy of Hatozaki.