New whisky distiller challenges Japan?s Suntory and Nikka dominance

Despite Japan being one of the largest whisky producing countries in the world, the country?s market is really dominated by only two distilleries: Suntory and Nikka. There are a number of small to medium size producers of the alcoholic beverage, but as Nonjatta points out, they don?t contribute very much to the Japanese distilling club. But now a new company is trying its hand at making whisky, Miyashita Sake Brewery, aiming to use its experience in making Japan?s iconic sake to become a challenger in a new drink market.

Also known for making beer and shochu, Miyashita, located in Okayama Prefecture, decided to try distilling whisky as a way to celebrate their upcoming 100th anniversary in 2015. Production is said to have started in June 2012, starting with malt grain both locally from Okayama and Germany, as well as water from the nearby Asahi river. When all was said and done, roughly 1,000 liters of Genshu was distilled, ready to spend the next three years aging in oak barrels. The expectation is that it will be bottled and sold in 2015 for Miyashita?s centennial.

With a goal of making a unique style of whisky, Miyashita hopes their experience in making beer and shochu will lead to a quality product. Whisky aficionados will have to wait a few more years before they can make that judging, but something different from Japan?s Coke-or-Pepsi-style market will surely be appreciated, even if it is a temporary release.

[via Nonjatta]

Source: http://japandailypress.com/new-whisky-distiller-challenges-japans-suntory-and-nikka-dominance-1521555

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