Asaka Distillery
History of Asaka Distillery
Asaka Distillery is a young and ambitious distillery in the world of Japanese whisky. While it may not boast a century-long legacy, it’s quickly making a name for itself with its unique offerings.
Sake Roots, Whisky Dreams (1765 – 2015)
The story of Asaka Distillery begins much earlier than its official founding. In 1765, Sasanokawa Shuzo, a company with a long history of sake brewing, was established. Fast forward to 1946, Sasanokawa Shuzo obtained a whisky license and began producing blended whiskies under the Yamazakura brand. However, their focus remained primarily on sake until the 21st century.
The tide turned in 2015, when Sasanokawa Shuzo recognized the booming demand for Japanese whisky and decided to enter the single malt market. This marked the birth of Asaka Distillery.
From Dream to Reality (2016 – Present)
Asaka Distillery officially began operations in 2016 in Koriyama, Fukushima Prefecture. The distillery benefits from the region’s natural resources, particularly the pure water drawn from the depths of Lake Inawashiro, one of Japan’s largest lakes.
The first bottling of Asaka single malt whisky, aptly named “Asaka The First,” was released in December 2019. While their current selection is limited, it showcases their focus on innovation and experimentation.
A Look at Asaka’s Offerings
Asaka Distillery is still in its early stages, and their whisky portfolio is evolving. Here’s a glimpse into what they currently offer:
- Asaka The First: This inaugural release is a young malt whisky, matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. It offers a light and fruity flavor profile with hints of vanilla and honey.
- Asaka Peated: This unique expression explores the use of peated malt, a rarity in Japanese whisky. It presents a smoky and slightly medicinal character alongside notes of citrus and spice.
Asaka Distillery also offers special bottlings from time to time, allowing them to experiment with different cask finishes and wood types.
Asaka Distillery is a young distillery with a rich heritage. Backed by Sasanokawa Shuzo’s experience and their commitment to innovation, Asaka is poised to make a significant mark on the Japanese whisky landscape. With future releases sure to come, whisky enthusiasts eagerly await to see how Asaka’s story unfolds.
Awards Won by Asaka Distillery
- Best Blended Whisky in the World 2022
Awarded for: Yamazakura Asaka Blended Malt
Event: World Whiskies Awards 2022
Description: This prestigious award recognized the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of the Yamazakura Asaka Blended Malt, highlighting its outstanding balance and flavor profile. - Silver Medal 2022
Awarded for: Yamazakura Japanese Single Malt Whisky Asaka Wcr
Event: World Whiskies Awards 2022
Description: This silver medal was awarded to the Yamazakura Japanese Single Malt Whisky, showcasing its excellent character and the high standards maintained by the distillery. - Category Winner 2022
Awarded for: Various products from Asaka Distillery
Event: World Whiskies Awards 2022
Description: Asaka Distillery won several category awards at the World Whiskies Awards 2022, demonstrating their versatility and expertise across different whisky types.
Asaka Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Asaka Distillery, located in Fukushima Prefecture, offers an immersive tour experience that allows visitors to explore the distillery, learn about whisky production, and taste their renowned Yamazakura whiskies.
Tour Highlights
- Guided Distillery Tour
- The tour includes a comprehensive look at the distillation process, the history of Asaka Distillery, and the craftsmanship behind their whiskies. Guides provide detailed explanations and insights into the production techniques used at the distillery.
- Tasting Sessions
- Visitors have the opportunity to taste a variety of Asaka’s whiskies, including their award-winning Yamazakura blends. These sessions allow guests to experience the distinct flavors and qualities of Asaka’s offerings.
- Custom Whisky Blending Experience
- One unique feature of the tour is the chance to create a personalized whisky blend. Guests can hand-fill their own bottles directly from the cask, combining different whisky types to create a custom blend that they can take home as a souvenir.
- Dining Experience
- After the distillery tour and blending session, visitors can enjoy a meal at The Kitchen Platform Restaurant. The restaurant offers innovative fusion cuisine made with local ingredients, complementing the whisky tasting experience.
- Shopping and Souvenirs
- The distillery shop offers exclusive bottles, including limited editions, as well as branded merchandise and other whisky-related items for purchase.
Flask & Barrel Review of Asaka Distillery
I recently visited Asaka Distillery in Fukushima, and it was an incredible experience. As a whiskey collector who has toured numerous distilleries, I can say that Asaka stands out for its charm, quality, and unique offerings.
From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the friendly and knowledgeable staff. The guided tour was detailed and engaging, offering a deep dive into the history and production process of their renowned Yamazakura whiskies. The guides made sure to answer all our questions and shared some fascinating insights about their distillation techniques.
The tasting session was a highlight. I got to sample a variety of their whiskies, each with its distinct flavor profile. The Yamazakura Blended Malt, which won the “Best Blended Whisky in the World” at the 2022 World Whiskies Awards, was an absolute delight. The balance and complexity of flavors were outstanding.
One of the coolest parts of the tour was the custom whisky blending experience. I had the chance to create my own blend and fill a bottle straight from the cask. It’s a hands-on experience that adds a personal touch to the visit, and I now have a unique bottle of whisky that I crafted myself.
After the tour and blending session, we enjoyed a fantastic meal at The Kitchen Platform Restaurant. The fusion cuisine, made with local ingredients, perfectly complemented the whisky tasting. The cherry blossom dessert was a nice seasonal touch.
The distillery shop offered a great selection of exclusive bottles and branded merchandise, making it easy to take a piece of Asaka Distillery home with me. I picked up a couple of limited editions to add to my collection.
Overall, my visit to Asaka Distillery was a memorable experience. The combination of excellent whisky, informative tour, and unique blending experience makes it a must-visit for any whisky enthusiast. I highly recommend it and look forward to returning in the future.
What To Do Nearby Asaka Distillery
- Koriyama City Fureai Science Space Park (4.4 miles): Take a trip out of this world at this interactive science museum. Explore exhibits on space, the human body, and the natural world through hands-on activities and demonstrations. Perfect for a fun and educational day with the family.
- Oyakubo Historic Park (2.8 miles): Immerse yourself in Japanese history at this park dedicated to the Edo period (1603-1868). Explore reconstructed samurai residences, wander through beautiful gardens, and learn about the region’s rich heritage.
- Fukushima Ouse Winery (4.3 miles): Embark on a journey for your taste buds at this local winery. Tour the facilities, learn about the winemaking process, and indulge in a tasting of their award-winning wines made from grapes grown in the Fukushima region.
- Lake Inawashiro (8.7 miles): Escape to the serene beauty of Lake Inawashiro, one of Japan’s largest lakes. Enjoy a scenic boat ride, go for a relaxing hike along the lakeshore, or simply admire the breathtaking views.
- Niidahonke Brewery (7.4 miles): If you’re a sake enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Niidahonke, a traditional sake brewery with over 300 years of history. Tour the brewery, learn about the sake-making process, and sample their delicious sake varieties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Asaka Distillery?
- the ça marche!（ザ マッシュ！）: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 37.3520608, 140.3639367, Koriyama, Fukushima, Japan. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81-24-923-8323.
- Arigato: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 37.3538945, 140.364186, Koriyama, Fukushima, Japan. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81-24-934-7701.
- 笹藤: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 37.3625886, 140.3665888, Koriyama, Fukushima, Japan. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81-24-932-1177.
What hotels are near Asaka Distillery?
- Mizuho Ryokan: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 37.3825177, 140.362317, Koriyama, Fukushima, Japan. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81-24-983-1122.
- Hotel Livemax Fukushima Koriyama Ekimae: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 37.4017384, 140.3877043, Koriyama, Fukushima, Japan. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81-24-939-5055.
- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Koriyama Station: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 37.3976431, 140.3868453, Koriyama, Fukushima, Japan. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81-24-925-3255.