Shizuoka Whisky

The phrase 'marrying tradition with innovation' is often used in the world of whisky. But at Shizuoka, it’s more than a concept; it’s built into the distillery itself. 

Situated in Japan’s Southern Alps, Shizuoka Distillery emerged in 2016 as an ode to nature, craftsmanship, and whisky heritage. Founded by Gaia Flow under the leadership of Taiko Nakamura, its inception was inspired by a transformative journey to Scotland, and guided by expertise from consulting with icons like Chichibu’s Ichiro Akuto.

Architecturally, the distillery harmonises Japanese aesthetic and Western influence, thanks to architect Derek Buston’s design, with resin-bright wooden interiors and abundant use of local timber, creating a warm, organic atmosphere atop a cool mountain valley.

Shizuoka’s whisky ethos revolves around terroir, innovation, and reverence for history. In a pioneering move, the distillery revitalized and repurposed a rare still (Pot Still K) from the legendary Karuizawa Distillery, along with a historic malt mill. Complementing this is Pot Still W, a wood-fired direct-heat still built by Forsyths, and possibly the only one in operation worldwide.

Whisky here begins its life with pure subsoil water sourced from the Abe-Nakakawachi River and malts grown in Shizuoka. In a bold "All-Shizuoka" initiative, the distillery now uses 100% Shizuoka-grown barley, Shizuoka-bred yeast, local cedar fermentation tanks, and wood fuel from cleared mountain timber. Their washbacks, crafted from Douglas-fir and Japanese cedar, are among the first domestically produced fermenters in Japan.

This fusion of tradition and regional authenticity produces single-malt whiskies rich with character. The contrast between Pot Still K’s light, floral elegance and Pot Still W’s robust, smoky intensity forms the core of Shizuoka’s signature expressions.