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Akkeshi Distillery Triumphs at the World Whisky Awards 2025

In a remarkable achievement, Akkeshi Distillery, operated by Katen Ten Jitsugyo Co., Ltd. based in Tokyo, has secured the prestigious gold medal for its "Hakuro" single malt Japanese whisky at the World Whisky Awards 2025, organized by the renowned whisky magazine, Whisky Magazine. This win is a notable recognition within the global whisky community, showcasing the distillery’s commitment to high-quality production and craftsmanship.

Overview of World Whisky Awards 2025

The World Whisky Awards (WWA) are a celebrated competition that evaluates whiskies through blind tasting, ensuring that experts judge these spirits based solely on their tasting profiles without prior knowledge of the brands. The 2025 awards spanned 22 categories, including single malt and blended whisky, drawing entries from distilleries across the globe. A panel of esteemed whisky specialists and top journalists rigorously assessed each entry, making the awards highly respected in the industry.

Medals Awarded at WWA2025

• - Gold Medal: Hakuro Single Malt Japanese Whisky
• - Silver Medals: Risshun Single Malt Japanese Whisky, Shoman Blended Whisky
• - Bronze Medal: Shoseki Blended Whisky

Hakuro Single Malt Japanese Whisky

The awarded Hakuro is offered in a 700ml bottle with an alcohol content of 55%. Priced at 19,800 yen (including tax), it is crafted from top-quality malt sourced from both British and Hokkaido barley, with 2023 marking the year of its production.

This whisky can be enjoyed during the autumn season, as the chill sets in, the local port brimming with seasonal fish such as mackerel and salmon, all while the beautiful nanakamado blossom colors the scenery. The distillation process is closely linked to the land’s resources, highlighting the connection between whisky and the rich autumn harvest of Akkeshi.

Tasting Notes for Hakuro

• - Aroma: The scent unfolds with hints of bonfire, Japanese citrus, custard pudding, and marmalade, inviting you to take a deeper sip.
• - Palate: On the palate, flavors of tangerine ginger and orange-flavored ramune create a sweet punch.
• - Finish: The whisky concludes with a delightful finish, leaving a mix of white pepper, salt lemon, and a lovely blend of citrus sweetness and zest.

The Story Behind Akkeshi Distillery

Established in October 2016, Akkeshi Distillery is recognized as one of the premier whisky producers in Eastern Hokkaido and has quickly become a significant player in the Japanese whisky scene. The journey began nearly two decades ago when CEO Keiichi Hida encountered the wonders of the Islay malt whisky, Ardbeg 17 years old, which ignited his passion for whisky making.

With water sourced from pristine peat layers and climate conditions ideal for maturation, Akkeshi Distillery aims to honor the traditional Scotch whisky-making techniques while infusing local flavors and ingredients into their products. The synergy of high-quality conditions provides a perfect backdrop for crafting exceptional whiskies that reflect the spirit of the region.

For those interested in experiencing the award-winning Hakuro or learning more about this outstanding distillery, they can reach out through their customer service center or visit their official website and social media channels.