The Akuto family have produced sake as far back as the 16th century. But in 1941, 19th-generation Isouji Akuto founded Hanyu Distillery to make whisky.

For decades, Hanyu produced acclaimed expressions, but long maturation times placed strain on the business, and under new ownership the distillery closed in 2000.

In 2004, Isouji’s grandson Ichiro Akuto repurchased the remaining stock, determined to preserve the family legacy. With the support of investors including Toa Shuzo, he launched Ichiro’s Malt in 2005, paving the way for legendary releases such as the Card Series.

In 2021, Toa Shuzo - one of Ichiro’s original investors and a revered producer of sake and shochu - revived the Hanyu Distillery. 

Built on the original site, with the state-of-the-art facilities, they have resumed whisky production, maturing spirit that promises to uphold Hanyu’s legendary status. The commitment is clear: honor the Hanyu brand and produce premium, high quality Japanese single-malt.

To achieve a faithful revival, Toa Shuzo commissioned MIYAKE Industries to recreate the original Hanyu pot still, based on original hand-drawn plans. This ensures the spirit’s character aligns closely with the historic flavour profile cultivated under the Akuto family. 

The authenticity of Hanyu’s revival is solidified thanks to Hideto Shimazaki, the distillery’s General Manager and Master Distiller. He is a direct bridge to the original operation, having worked at the former Hanyu Distillery before its closure.

Guided by historic notebooks and his own experience, Shimazaki-san helped recreate the pot stills using the original blueprints and is driven by “the pursuit of perfection” as he reinvigorates the Hanyu single malt style. 

Shimazaki-san leads a carefully assembled team that blends legacy with modern precision.

The new Hanyu Distillery now produces around 70,000 litres of alcohol annually, equivalent to roughly 560 hogsheads or 600 bourbon barrels each year. By comparison, Macallan produces around 15 million litres per year, while Suntory’s Yamazaki distillery produces about 6 million litres.

Hanyu Single Malt is matured in a wide variety of casks, with a strong emphasis on bourbon and sherry wood, including Amontillado, Palo Cortado, Oloroso, Pedro Ximénez, and Cream Sherry. 

The Hanyu Distillery also matures whisky in other cask types in smaller quantities.

This varied approach ensures the distillery is able to produce a distinctive house-style, while also being able to offer a bespoke experience to patrons that want something a little more unique.