Exciting Launch of iichiko IRODORI Cocktail Competition Japan Final in 2025

Celebrating Creativity at the iichiko IRODORI Cocktail Competition 2025

On November 8, 2025, the vibrant theme of "Wa × IRO" will resonate at the inaugural iichiko IRODORI Cocktail Competition Japan Final. Hosted by Sanwa Shurui Co., Ltd. at the exquisite HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU, this prestigious event promises to highlight the creativity and skill of Japan's finest bartenders.

What to Expect

This competition not only showcases talent but also aims to underscore the unique qualities of iichiko彩天, a premium barley shochu. Featuring a remarkable 275 applications nationwide, 45 candidates advanced past the initial documentation screening to the video selection stage, culminating in 7 finalists who will compete for the coveted title by presenting their original cocktails using iichiko彩天.

The significance of the name IRODORI symbolizes the desire to enrich the global cocktail scene with the distinct colors of each bartender’s individual creativity and skills. The competition will allow these finalists to bring out new attractions and innovations in the world of classic Japanese shochu.

As part of the event, attendees will have the chance to indulge in a cocktail tasting session, providing a multi-sensory experience that promises to elevate the flavors of iichiko彩天. A spectacular flair show performed by Japan's top flair bartenders is also set to enthrall audiences, making this an unforgettable occasion.

Competition Details

The event will run from 13:30 to 17:20, with doors opening at 13:00. The anticipated cocktail tasting will begin at 15:30.
Here’s a closer look at the finalists:

1. Ryuya Kaneshiro from Tokyo, representing One by one coffee.
2. Ryoan Kamada from Kyoto, representing Park Hyatt Kyoto.
3. Takeaki Kimura from Ishikawa, representing Dining bar JIMHALL.
4. Yuya Takahashi from Kanagawa, representing The Kahala Hotel & Resort Yokohama.
5. Saki Takeshita from Hokkaido, representing cocktailbar BLUEMOON.
6. Sang-Woon Cho from Tokyo, representing Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo Otemachi VIRTÙ.
7. Kyosuke Mitsuda from Kumamoto, representing LES CLOS.

The exemplary lineup of judges includes four top bartenders who will rigorously evaluate the contestants' abilities. The jury features:

- Kenta Goto, owner bartender of Bar GOTO.
- Shingo Gokan, founder of SG Group.
- Manabu Otake, manager and chief bartender of the Royal Bar at Palace Hotel Tokyo.
- Hiroyasu Kayama, owner bartender of Bar BenFiddich.

Introducing iichiko彩天

iichiko彩天 offers rich flavors steeped in tradition, crafted from koji — a hallmark of Japanese fermentation culture. This barley shochu, developed alongside top bartenders from the U.S., captures a unique aroma with a profound aftertaste suitable for shots, on the rocks, or as an exquisite base for cocktails.

Learn more about iichiko彩天 on the official site here.

About Sanwa Shurui Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1958, Sanwa Shurui Co. specializes in a variety of alcoholic beverages, including shochu, sake, wine, brandy, liqueurs, and spirits. The company focuses on crafting products that embrace fermentation, reflecting its dedication to quality and heritage. To shop online, visit Sanwa Shurui Online Shop.

We look forward to witnessing how the competition will inspire an even greater appreciation of iichiko and its potential within the cocktail landscape of Japan.