The Kigai

Celebrating The 100th Anniversary of Japanese Whisky

Marking The 100th Anniversary of Japanese Whisky

This year marks an important milestone as the Japanese Whisky industry celebrates its 100th anniversary. In 1919, Eigashima became the first distillery to obtain a license to produce whisky in Japan, thereby starting a chain of events that would eventually lead to the iconic whisky we now cherish. In addition to the first license being obtained in 1919, the year is also notable in the history of Japanese Whisky as it was the year that Masataka Taketsuru, the “Father of Japanese Whisky”, left on a journey to Scotland to learn the art of whisky making. This voyage would allow him to gain an intricate knowledge of the processes used by Scotch distilleries, which he used upon his return to Japan to spearhead construction of Yamazaki, Yoichi and Miyagikyo.

The Story Of Japanese Whisky, In A Bottle

Japanese Whisky has come along ways in the past 100 years, rising from obscurity to reach the upper echelon of whisky. Such persistence, dedication and incredible achievements called for a special release that could properly pay tribute to the remarkable story that is Japanese Whisky. Our team spent years planning the perfect bottle.

In order to bottle the very essence and history of the Japanese Whisky story, we had to go back to where it all began with the finest whisky from the Eigashima Distillery. Then, just as Masataka Taketsuru journeyed to Scotland, the whisky was placed in a Scottish whisky cask from the now silent Port Ellen distillery to bring a beautiful array of Scotch flavors to the Japanese liquid. This combination of Japanese Whisky with maturation in a Scottish cask is a rare marriage that combines the unique characteristics of both to create a spirit unlike any other.

The Final Chapter. Mizunara.

Following the story of Taketsuru, the outstanding Eigashima liquid deserved to be brought back to it’s Japanese roots. As the final chapter, the rich whisky was placed in a Mizunara cask for it’s final year to build upon the already rich liquid by imparting a flurry of distinctively Japanese flavors. The end result is a whisky that has been carefully crafted to symbolize the journey of Taketsuru, delivering a single malt that is among the most unique ever produced.

Beautiful Design

The Shōgun was a military leader who held ultimate rule over Japan’s territories, commanding the respect and honour of all of those under his reign. This release has been carefully designed to capture the essence of the Shōgun in the beautiful bottle and immaculate packaging. The alluring label design draws inspiration from Japanese art to bring the illustration to life with the power and strength of the Shōgun. Each bottle is complemented by an elegant wooden presentation stand that has been meticulously handcrafted in the shape of a Shogun helmet with intricate etching flowing across the woodwork. When you see this bottle it doesn't just capture your attention, it demands it.

Limited Quantities Remain

With only 352 bottles available, the Kigai is a highly limited expression. Not many bottles remain and as such this second release from the widely acclaimed Ki series is expected to sell out soon. Don't miss out, order your bottle now.