Japanese whiskies are known for their smoothness and complexity, often drawing inspiration from traditional Scotch whisky production methods. They typically feature a delicate balance of flavors, including fruity, floral, and smoky notes, making them appealing to a wide range of palates. The first Japanese whisky distillery, Yamazaki, was established in 1923 by Masataka Taketsuru, who studied whisky-making in Scotland. Today, Japanese whiskies have gained international acclaim, winning numerous awards and becoming popular among whisky enthusiasts worldwide.