Akkeshi Distillery's Blended Whisky Receives Gold at ISC 2025

Akkeshi Distillery Celebrates Major Wins at ISC 2025

Akkeshi Distillery, located in Akkeshi Town, renowned for its oysters, has recently made headlines by winning three gold medals at the International Spirits Challenge 2025 (ISC 2025). This annual event held in the UK is recognized globally as a premier competition for alcoholic beverages, attracting entries from thousands of products each year. Among the illustrious winners is the Akkeshi Blended Whisky "Shōsetsu", which stood tall in the worldwide whiskey category. Notably, they also received accolades for two single malt products, further solidifying their reputation in the whiskey-making community.

ISC 2025 Awards Overview

Japanese Whisky Category

Gold Medals:

- Kamui Whisky® Kamui Chepp
- Single Cask Japanese Whisky from Taguchi Livestock

Silver Medals:

- Risshun Single Malt Japanese Whisky
- Hanaguhashi Karinpani Single Malt Japanese Whisky
- Kamui Whisky® Kapachirikamui Vatted Malt
- Shōsho Single Malt Japanese Whisky

Worldwide Whisky Category

Gold Medal:

- Akkeshi Blended Whisky "Shōsetsu"

Silver Medal:

- Akkeshi Blended Whisky "Kokuu"

About International Spirits Challenge (ISC)

The ISC is a globally recognized spirits competition held annually in the UK. Each year, thousands of entries compete across various categories, with whiskey judged by professional blenders and distillers through blind tastings. This rigorous evaluation process enhances the competition's prestige, making it one of the most respected awards within the spirits industry.

Highlighted Product: Akkeshi Blended Whisky "Shōsetsu"

The "Shōsetsu" embodies the essence of autumn, inspired by the golden larch trees as they shed their leaves. Its unique character is celebrated when the white swans arrive at Akkeshi Lake, heralding the first snow. This blended whisky is warmly embraced, perfect for a delightful year-end celebration.

Tasting Notes:

- Aroma: A delightful mix of hot, sweet scrambled eggs with soy sauce, honey lemon, and a hint of raisins.
- Taste: A smoky profile with a harmonious blend of citrus acidity and sweetness.
- Finish: Notes of pink peppercorn, orange sauce, and salt lemon linger delightfully.

Details:

- Volume: 700ml
- Alcohol Content: 48%
- Release Date: November 2023

The Journey of Akkeshi Distillery

Founded in October 2016, Akkeshi Distillery is the first whiskey distillery in East Hokkaido. Managed by Keiichi Hida, the company’s roots trace back to a pivotal moment twenty years ago when Hida fell in love with the depth of whisky after tasting Ardbeg 17-year-old from Islay, Scotland. This passion fueled his commitment to create whisky in Akkeshi, where pure water can be sourced through peat layers, and the cool, moist climate provides ideal conditions for maturation. Utilizing local ingredients that complement whisky making traditions, the distillery has adhered closely to the Scotch traditions while establishing its unique identity.

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