1 The Appeal and Characteristics of Craft Whisky
What Is Craft Whisky?
What Makes Craft Whisky So Appealing?
What Are Small-Scale Distilleries (Craft Distilleries / Micro-Distilleries)?
2 The Unique Characteristics and Craftsmanship of Yamagata Craft Whisky
Number of Whisky Distilleries in Yamagata
Yamagata’s Drinking Culture and the Characteristics of Its Craft Whisky
3 Recommended Whisky Distilleries in Yamagata Prefecture
Yuza Distillery
Gekkogawa Distillery
4 Types of Whisky and How to Enjoy Them
What Are the Different Types of Whisky?
What Are the Best Ways to Enjoy Whisky?
About the Author:
Yosuke Murai COO, August Beer Co., Ltd.
Born in 1985 and a graduate of Keio University, Yosuke began his career at the Nomura Research Institute (NRI) before establishing himself as a strategic consultant. His journey into the craft world began through a pivotal partnership with August Beer, a pioneer in the Japanese craft beer industry. Today, as a shareholder and COO, he leverages his background in top-tier consulting to support entrepreneurs in launching successful craft beer and whisky facilities across Japan.
1. The Appeal and Characteristics of Craft Whisky
What Is Craft Whisky?
Whisky is a distilled spirit made by fermenting grains such as malt and aging the liquid in barrels. Among these, “craft whisky” refers to whisky produced at small-scale distilleries.
There is no strict definition, but like craft beer, craft whisky is typically produced in limited quantities at small distilleries, resulting in a distinctive and individual character.
The word “craft” conveys meanings such as handmade, artisanal, and skillful, emphasizing the fact that craft whisky is carefully produced by skilled artisans.
Craft whisky often features unique and creative flavors, offering a taste and quality experience that sets it apart from mass-produced whiskies.
What Makes Craft Whisky So Appealing?
The greatest appeal of craft whisky lies in its diversity and individuality.
Thanks to the flexibility of small-scale production, distillers can use local ingredients and adopt unique production methods, resulting in whiskies with flavors that cannot be found elsewhere.
Many craft whiskies also reflect the stories, passion, and local spirit of their producers. Learning about the background of a whisky can deepen your appreciation and enjoyment of it. Unlike mass-produced whiskies that are available everywhere, craft whiskies are often exclusive to a particular region or distillery, making them popular among tourists and as souvenirs.
With their special character and unique qualities, craft whiskies are gaining increasing popularity. Japan’s high-quality Japanese craft whiskies are attracting attention from international visitors as well.
It seems likely that interest in craft whisky will continue to grow in the years to come.
What Are Small-Scale Distilleries (Craft Distilleries / Micro-Distilleries)?
A small-scale distillery is, as the name suggests, a small distillery where craft whisky is produced.
Because they are small-scale distilleries, such facilities have traditionally been referred to as “micro-distilleries.” As the term “craft” has become more widely used, the name “craft distillery” has also gained popularity.
There are various terms in use, including small-scale distillery, craft distillery, and whisky distillery, but there is no strict definition distinguishing these terms.
In this article, we will refer to these facilities as “whisky distilleries.”
2. The Unique Characteristics and Craftsmanship of Yamagata Craft Whisky
Number of Whisky Distilleries in Yamagata Prefecture
As of September 2024, there are two whisky distilleries in Yamagata Prefecture (source: JWIC). Both are located in Akumi District.
Yamagata is a region with fertile soil, abundant clean water, and a strong agricultural tradition. Many distilleries take advantage of locally grown rice and fruits in their whisky production.
Although the number of distilleries is small, the region’s favorable environment for brewing suggests that more craft whisky distilleries may emerge in the future.
Yamagata’s Drinking Culture and the Characteristics of Its Craft Whisky
Yamagata Prefecture, located in the Tohoku region, is blessed with a rich natural environment. Rice cultivation thrives here, and the region’s abundant water and cold climate support the production of high-quality Japanese sake.
Yamagata sake is known for its fruity, delicate aroma and soft, smooth texture. Representative brands include Juyondai and Kudoki Jozu, both highly regarded nationwide.
In addition, Yamagata has a growing wine industry, particularly producing wines from locally grown grapes and other fruits, which have been gaining attention.
The prefecture also hosts two craft whisky distilleries, with the number expected to grow in the coming years.
3. Recommended Whisky Distilleries in Yamagata Prefecture
Yuza Distillery
Address: 20 Kakujita, Yoshide, Yuza Town, Akumi District, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan
Official Website & SNS: https://yuza-disty.jp/
Yuza Distillery is the first Japanese whisky distillery in Yamagata.
It is operated by Kinryu, a company founded in 1950 through joint investment by nine local sake makers. Kinryu is widely known for its “Sō” brand shōchū.
The whisky from Yuza is characterized by the cool, moderately humid climate along the Sea of Japan coast and the Chokai Mountain spring water, which has been selected as one of Japan’s “100 Best Water Villages” by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
Gekkogawa Distillery
Address: 37-14 Sugano, Sugasato, Yuza Town, Akumi District, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan
Official Website & SNS: https://gakkogawa.com/
Pronounced Gakkōgawa, Gekkogawa Distillery Co., Ltd. was established in 2021 as a subsidiary of Tatenokawa Shuzo, a company aiming to become a comprehensive beverage producer. The distillery began whisky production in autumn 2023 in Yuza Town, Akumi District.
By leveraging Tatenokawa Shuzo’s export network, which currently reaches over 25 countries, Gekkogawa plans to expand its whisky distribution not only within Japan but also to overseas markets where demand is growing.
Gekkogawa whisky is distinguished by its use of high-quality, pristine water from the Shonai region.
4.Types of Whisky and How to Enjoy Them
What Are the Different Types of Whisky?
Alcoholic beverages are generally classified into brewed alcoholic beverages, distilled spirits, and mixed alcoholic beverages. Among these, whisky falls into the category of distilled spirits.
Distilled spirits such as whisky and shochu typically have a higher alcohol content than brewed alcoholic beverages like beer and wine.
Whisky itself can be classified into several types based on factors such as ingredients and place of origin.
Well-known whiskies are often grouped into five major categories, commonly referred to as the “Five Major Whiskies.” These categories are as follows:
Scotch Whisky
Produced in Scotland and aged in oak casks for at least three years.
Irish Whiskey
Produced in Ireland and typically characterized by triple distillation, which gives it a smooth profile.
American Whiskey
Includes bourbon, rye, and Tennessee whiskey, among others, and is produced according to distinct methods and strict regulations.
Canadian Whisky
Generally known for its mild and smooth character.
Japanese Whisky
Influenced by Scotch whisky, yet widely recognized for its refined and distinctive production techniques.
Japanese whisky is also widely enjoyed as one of the Five Major Whiskies.
What Are the Best Ways to Enjoy Whisky?
There are many ways to enjoy whisky. Here are some of the most popular methods:
Neat
This is drinking whisky as is, without any mixers or ice. It allows you to fully appreciate the whisky’s complex flavors and aromas.
On the Rocks
Whisky served over ice. The ice slightly mellows the flavor, making it smooth and easy to sip.
Highball
Whisky mixed with carbonated water. This creates a refreshing taste and pairs well with meals.
Cocktails
Whisky can be combined with various liqueurs, juices, and other ingredients to create a wide range of cocktails, offering diverse flavor experiences.
One of the great appeals of whisky is the variety of ways it can be enjoyed. The choice of how to drink it can depend on the type of whisky, your mood, or the setting.
Trying different ways of enjoying whisky is part of the fun—it allows you to discover your personal favorite style.
Why not enjoy your favorite craft whisky in the way that suits you best?
[ForCompanies Considering Craft Whisky Production]
A Must-Read for Those Planning to Launch a Craft Whisky Distillery. Did you know that by integrating a microbrewery model, it is possible to produce craft whisky even on a small scale?
Furthermore, we offer a strategy to generate revenue even during the long maturation period.Why not consider launching your craft whisky business with Augst Beer?
We have a proven track record of supporting successful distillery launches across Japan.
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