Nagahama Distillery

History of Nagahama Distillery

Nagahama Distillery, located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, was established in 2016. It was founded by Takashi Katori, who had a vision of creating a unique Japanese whisky that would combine traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques.

The distillery is situated in Nagahama city, known for its historical significance and beautiful landscapes, which add to the charm and character of the whisky produced here.

Founder: Takashi Katori

Takashi Katori, the mastermind behind Nagahama Distillery, brought a wealth of experience and passion to the world of whisky. His dedication to quality and innovation has been the driving force behind the distillery’s success. 

Katori’s background in engineering and his deep appreciation for traditional Japanese culture have influenced the unique methods and meticulous attention to detail in the distillation process.

Types of Whisky Offered

Nagahama Distillery offers a diverse range of whiskies that cater to different palates. Their products include single malts and blended whiskies, each with distinct flavor profiles. The single malt whiskies are known for their rich and complex flavors, often featuring notes of fruit, spice, and a hint of smoke.

The blended whiskies, on the other hand, are crafted to achieve a balanced and harmonious taste, appealing to both novice and seasoned whisky enthusiasts.

Signature Whiskies

1. Nagahama Single Malt: This whisky is celebrated for its robust and layered flavors, with hints of oak, vanilla, and dried fruits. The aging process in various casks adds depth and complexity to its profile.
2. Amahagan Series: Amahagan is a blended whisky series that has garnered attention for its smoothness and intricate flavor combinations. Each expression in the series is carefully crafted to highlight different aspects of whisky-making.

Awards Won by Nagahama Distillery

World Whiskies Awards: Silver in 2020 for Nagahama New Make 59° Non-Peat and various other category wins in subsequent years.

Category Winner: Recognized multiple times, highlighting the distillery’s consistent quality and innovation.

Nagahama Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Nagahama Distillery offers an immersive tour experience that provides a comprehensive insight into the whisky-making process. Visitors can explore the distillery’s history, its unique production methods, and the intricate details that go into crafting their acclaimed whiskies.

Tour Highlights

1. Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through the distillery, explaining each step of the whisky-making process, from mashing and fermentation to distillation and maturation.
2. Historical Insights: The tour delves into the rich history of Nagahama and its distillery, offering context about its founding and growth.
3. Tasting Sessions: Visitors have the opportunity to sample a variety of Nagahama’s whiskies, including exclusive and limited-edition releases. This allows guests to experience the distinct flavors and aromas that define Nagahama whiskies.
4. Scenic Location: Situated near Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake, the distillery offers stunning views, enhancing the overall experience with a serene and picturesque backdrop.

Duration: Tours typically last around 60 to 90 minutes, providing ample time to explore and enjoy the various aspects of the distillery.

Booking: Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.

Facilities: The distillery also features a well-stocked gift shop where visitors can purchase their favorite Nagahama whiskies and branded merchandise.

A visit to Nagahama Distillery offers an engaging and educational experience for whisky enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The combination of expert guides, in-depth historical context, and the chance to taste premium whiskies makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese whisky.

Flask & Barrel Review of Nagahama Distillery

I recently had the pleasure of touring the Nagahama Distillery, and I have to say, it was a fantastic experience. As a whiskey collector who’s visited many distilleries, Nagahama stands out for its unique blend of traditional and innovative techniques.

The tour itself was well-organized and informative. Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate, providing a deep dive into the history and process of their whisky-making. It was fascinating to learn how the distillery combines Scottish methods with Japanese precision to create their distinct whiskies.

One of the highlights was the tasting session. We got to sample a variety of their whiskies, including some exclusive releases. The flavors were rich and complex, with each whisky offering something unique. My personal favorite was the Nagahama Single Malt – the balance of oak, vanilla, and dried fruits was superb.

The location of the distillery, near Lake Biwa, adds to the charm. The scenic views and serene environment made the experience even more enjoyable. Plus, the gift shop had a great selection of their whiskies and other merchandise, perfect for taking a piece of the experience home.

Overall, I highly recommend a visit to Nagahama Distillery. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or just starting your journey, this tour offers a wonderful blend of education, tasting, and beautiful scenery.

What To Do Nearby Nagahama Distillery

Kurokabe Square (1.2 miles): Immerse yourself in the charming Kurokabe Square, a district brimming with historic black-walled buildings. Explore art galleries, browse unique shops selling local crafts, and savor delicious meals at traditional Japanese restaurants.

Hō Park (1.6 miles): Escape to the tranquil Hō Park, a haven of serene gardens and historical landmarks. Stroll through the beautiful Japanese gardens, visit the impressive Hōman-san Roman Catholic Church, and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Biwa from Hikone Castle. (Hikone Castle itself might be a bit further depending on chosen access point)

Lake Biwa (Varies by access point): Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan. Explore the picturesque lakeside towns, visit the unique Shirahige Shrine built on stilts over the water, or enjoy various water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.

Omihachiman (8.1 miles): Immerse yourself in the historical town of Omihachiman, known for its well-preserved canals and traditional merchant houses. Take a boat tour through the canals, explore the Hakone Hachiman Shrine, and savor delicious local specialties like “ohagi,” a sweet rice ball treat.

Meiji Mura Open-Air Architectural Museum (22 miles): Travel back in time at the Meiji Mura Open-Air Architectural Museum. Explore a collection of Meiji period (1868-1912) wooden buildings relocated from across Japan, offering a glimpse into the country’s architectural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Nagahama Distillery?

Yokaro: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 10-1 Motohamacho, Nagahama, Shiga 526-0059, Japan. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81 749-62-1848.

Torikita: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 12-34 Motohamacho, Nagahama, Shiga 526-0059, Japan. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81 749-62-0064.

Brasserie COORD: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Japan, 〒526-0059 Shiga, Nagahama, Motohamacho, 7−14 2F. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81749576413.

What hotels are near Nagahama Distillery?

Kitabiwako Hotel Grazie: It has a rating of 4.0 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 4-17 Minatocho, Nagahama, Shiga 526-0067, Japan. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81 749-62-7777.

Antique Inn Sumiyoshi: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Japan, 〒506-0011 Gifu, Takayama, Honmachi, 4 Chome−２１−21. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81577320228.

Hamakogetsu: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 2-5 Minamihama-cho, Nagahama, Shiga 526-0067, Japan. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81 749-62-1111.