Kanosuke Distillery Introduces Three Core Japanese Whiskies

As Japanese whisky continues to capture the attention of connoisseurs worldwide, Kanosuke Distillery from Kagoshima is set to make its mark with the launch of three core expressions: Kanosuke Japanese Single Malt Whisky, Kanosuke Hioki Japanese Pot Still Single Grain Whisky, and Kanosuke Double Distillery Japanese Blended Whisky. Located on the coast of Kyushu, Kanosuke Distillery offers a distinct take on Japanese whisky.

Founded by fourth-generation Master Blender Yoshitsugu Komasa, the distillery pays tribute to his grandfather, Kanosuke Komasa, who pioneered the world’s first oak cask-aged shochu in 1957. “We are very proud to share Kanosuke Distillery’s core range with whisky connoisseurs,” says Komasa. “These whiskies honour the vision of my grandfather and showcase this noble spirit through the universal language of whisky. We are excited to raise the visibility and prestige of Japanese spirits overall.”

Kanosuke combines 140 years of shochu-making expertise with modern whisky production techniques. Its use of vacuum distillation and recharred shochu casks results in a mellow yet complex flavour profile, appealing to both seasoned whisky drinkers and newcomers alike. Kagoshima’s coastal climate also plays a role in shaping the character of the whiskies.

Situated along Fukiagehama Beach, the distillery experiences a wide temperature range, from warm, humid summers to cooler winters with strong coastal winds from the East China Sea, helping to accelerate maturation. Kanosuke operates three pot stills, rather than the more traditional two found in many distilleries. Each still features a different neck shape and angle, allowing for greater diversity in flavour development.

1. KANOSUKE JAPANESE SINGLE MALT WHISKY

Tasting notes: Aromas of banana, lemon cake and Japanese confectionery lead into a palate of candied quince, ginger and a hint of campfire smoke. The finish is gentle, with subtle notes of salty sea air. Ageing: Matured in ex-Mellowed Kozuru shochu casks, ex-sherry butts and ex-bourbon barrels.

ABV: 48%

Price: TBC for Australia, currently US$99.99 in the United States

2. KANOSUKE HIOKI JAPANESE POT STILL SINGLE GRAIN WHISKY

Tasting notes: Fresh-cut wood, stone fruit and citrus on the nose, followed by a palate of vanilla, orange marmalade and almonds. The finish carries a spicy note of candied ginger.

Ageing: Matured in new American oak puncheons and ex-bourbon barrels.

ABV: 51%

Price: TBC for Australia, currently US$109.99 in the United States

3. KANOSUKE DOUBLE DISTILLERY JAPANESE BLENDED WHISKY

Tasting notes: Floral aromatics with summer melon, stone fruit and lemongrass lead into a rich, bittersweet palate of black tea, clove, orange peel and raspberry. The finish is long, with moderate oak and a soft, drying bitterness.

Ageing: A blend of whiskies matured in new American oak puncheons, ex-bourbon barrels, recharred shochu casks and sherry butts.

ABV: 53%

Price: TBC for Australia, currently US$119.99 in the United States