January 17th Spirit Dinner:
Japanese Whisky
Mars Whisky: Mars Shinshu Distillery, founded in 1985 in Nagano Prefecture, has a history dating back to 1949. Mars whisky gained recognition for its unique expressions, blending traditional Scottish techniques with Japanese craftsmanship. The distillery faced periods of dormancy but saw a revival in the 2010s with renewed interest in Japanese whisky globally.
Akashi Whisky: White Oak Distillery, located near Akashi in Hyogo Prefecture, started producing whisky in 1919 but didn't release single malts under the Akashi brand until the 1980s. Akashi whisky is known for its smoothness and delicate flavors, often showcasing the Japanese approach to whisky-making.
Ichiro's Malt: Ichiro Akuto, a descendant of the founder of the Hanyu Distillery, revived his family's distilling legacy by founding Chichibu Distillery in 2008. Ichiro's Malt gained acclaim for its small-batch releases and innovative cask finishes. It's celebrated for its rich, complex flavors and has become highly sought after by whisky enthusiasts worldwide.