The 21st Whisky Examination is Almost Here!
If you're a whisky enthusiast or looking to deepen your knowledge about this fascinating spirit, it's time to act! The Whisky Culture Research Institute, run by the acclaimed whisky critic Mamoru Tsuchiya, is currently accepting applications for the 21st Whisky Examination, scheduled for September 2025. This popular certification test is designed to enhance your understanding of whisky's history, production, and appreciation.
Unique Participant Gifts Await You
Upon registration, each candidate will receive a wonderful gift: an environmentally friendly cork coaster designed by renowned printmaker Tomoko Watanabe. This special coaster features stunning motifs inspired by Scotland's iconic distilleries — Laphroaig and Bruichladdich. One side showcases an otter believed to reside in the nearby bay at Laphroaig, while the other portrays a playful porpoise swimming in the waters behind Bruichladdich. This exquisite design is highly coveted among whisky lovers and also appears on tote bags!
What makes this gift even more exciting is that the coasters will be randomly distributed with exam kits (including exam papers and answer sheets). This means you won't know which design you'll receive until it arrives, adding an element of surprise to your participation!
About the Whisky Examination
The Whisky Examination consists of three levels: basic Level 3, Level 2, and the Japanese Craft Whisky (JC) level, catering specifically to enthusiasts fascinated by Japanese distilleries. The exam is conveniently conducted at home, allowing participants to take the test within a defined period, making it accessible to those living far away from urban areas.
To prepare effectively, a range of resources is available including the