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Embrace the Art of Whisky: Enrollment for the 22nd Whisky Examination Begins

The Whisky Culture Institute, based in Shibuya, Tokyo, led by President Mamoru Tsuchiya, has officially opened enrollment for the upcoming 22nd Whisky Examination, which is set to take place in February 2026. The exam is designed for enthusiasts wishing to deepen their appreciation of whisky, with a focus on various levels of expertise ranging from entry-level to specialized knowledge.

All You Need to Know about the 22nd Whisky Examination

The 22nd Whisky Exam offers a unique opportunity to take part in the growing whisky culture. Participants can choose from three distinct levels:

• - Level 3: Entry-level assessment primarily focused on Scotch whisky.
• - Level 2: Intermediate questions centered around more nuanced whisky knowledge.
• - Irish Whisky Level: A special tier dedicated exclusively to Irish whiskies, making a return after a four-year hiatus.

All levels allow flexibility; candidates may start at Level 3, advance to Level 2, or tackle the Irish Whisky level, with the option to take multiple assessments—so everyone can find their perfect match in whisky knowledge.

Participate from Home

Notably, the 22nd Whisky Examination is conducted from the comfort of your home. During the designated exam period, candidates can decide on their preferred timing, making it accessible for those with busy schedules or who reside far from exam locations. This home examination model ensures the opportunity to engage with whisky studies is more achievable than ever before.

A Return of the Irish Whisky Level

The Irish Whisky Level, last held in February 2022, covers all aspects of Irish whisky, including its definitions, production patterns, distillery characteristics, historical context, and cultural significance in Ireland. It is an in-depth examination that pushes the boundaries of whisky knowledge.

To prepare, candidates should rely on the essential resource, the Irish Whisky Chronicle. This comprehensive tome, derived from articles in the renowned whisky magazine Whisky Galore, details the operational specifics of 52 current distilleries, alongside artisanal techniques, terroirs, and product information, ensuring thorough preparation for exam day.

Comprehensive Resources for Aspirants

In addition to the Irish Whisky Chronicle, examinees will find the Enhanced Revised Official Textbook invaluable. Detailing everything from the basics of whisky ingredients to the manufacturing process and the histories of the five major whisky types, it serves as a vital study aid for all levels—making it an essential addition to any whisky enthusiast's library. Furthermore, the Official Question Collection is scheduled for release in early November, with questions from past exams, ensuring candidates have ample practice materials.

Detailed Overview of the 22nd Whisky Examination

Examination Levels:

• - Level 3
• - Level 2
• - Irish Whisky (IW) Level

Exam Period: February 13, 2026 (Fri) to February 24, 2026 (Tue)

Fees:

• - Level 3: 4,400 yen
• - Level 2: 5,500 yen
• - IW Level: 5,500 yen

(Note: A 10% discount for candidates registering for two or more levels.)

Application Deadlines:

• - For convenience store payment, bank transfer, or Pay-easy: January 15, 2026 (Thu)
• - For credit card payment: January 22, 2026 (Thu)

Eligibility:

• - Must be 20 years of age or older.

Official Website:

Whisky Examination Official Site

What is the Whisky Examination?

The Whisky Examination aims to expand knowledge and enjoyment of whisky by assessing participants' understanding of whisky manufacturing processes, historical backgrounds, and cultural stories. Since its inception in 2014, the exam has attracted approximately 34,000 applicants as of the conclusion of the 21st session held in September. Questions cover various topics, such as whisky ingredients and their origins, as well as the regional specifics of Scotch whisky production in Scotland, enriching candidates' understanding of whisky's cultural roots.

The examination format, primarily multiple-choice with some descriptive questions, allows both beginners and seasoned whisky aficionados to test their knowledge in a welcoming environment.

About the Whisky Culture Institute

Founded in March 2001, the Whisky Culture Institute is committed to promoting whisky culture under the expertise of renowned whisky critic Mamoru Tsuchiya. The organization emphasizes research, knowledge dissemination, and the development of whisky enthusiasts and professionals. Alongside the Whisky Examination, it operates Japan's only whisky magazine, Whisky Galore, organizes whisky festivals, and offers a qualification system to recognize skilled whisky connoisseurs. Notably, it also hosts the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition, Japan's only competition focusing on global whiskies and spirits.

Company Overview

• - Name: Whisky Culture Institute
• - Headquarters: 1-10-5 Hiroo, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0012
• - President: Mamoru Tsuchiya

Profile of Mamoru Tsuchiya

Born in 1954 in Sado, Niigata Prefecture, Mamoru Tsuchiya graduated from Gakushuin University and transitioned from being a magazine journalist to a whisky expert. After encountering Scotch whisky during reporting in Scotland, his passion ignited. He has since published numerous works on whisky and served as a consultant for whisky-related programs, furthering whisky culture in Japan.