Akkeshi

Founded in 2016 in the city of Akkeshi by the company Kenten Jitsugyo , the Akkeshi distillery embodies a unique approach to Japanese whisky, blending traditional Scottish craftsmanship with local Japanese resources . This project was born from the passion of its founder, Keiichi Toita , who was deeply impressed by the smoky and peaty aromas of Islay single malts during a memorable tasting of an Ardbeg 17 Year Old in a Ginza bar.

Located on Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido , the distillery quickly acquired a solid reputation in the Japanese whisky scene. It benefits from a cool, humid climate , regularly enveloped in sea mists from the Bekan-Beushi wetlands , a natural environment strongly reminiscent of the famous Scottish region of Islay . While this connection has earned it the nickname " little Lagavulin ," Akkeshi has nevertheless been committed, from the outset, to forging its own distinct and recognizable identity.

The path leading to the first release perfectly illustrates the distillery's philosophy of patience and precision. Starting in 2013, aging trials were undertaken using unaged eaux-de-vie from other Japanese distilleries to define a distinctive aromatic style, clearly identifiable as "Akkeshi." The choice of location proved crucial: the distillery is built in the heart of wetlands , on fragile soil covered by a thick layer of peat that can reach a depth of 50 meters.

Distillation began in 2016 using Forsyth copper pot stills , and in 2018 the distillery unveiled its first whisky. Akkeshi now relies on six stainless steel fermentation tanks, pure water sourced directly from the Homakai River , and three aging warehouses , one of which is located on the shores of Akkeshi Bay. Aging takes place in a wide variety of casks: bourbon, sherry, and Japanese Mizunara oak, lending complexity and depth to the distillery's limited editions.

Akkeshi's philosophy is based on combining traditional Scottish methods with the unique expression of Hokkaido's terroir. Driven by intense aromas and distinctive flavor profiles , its whiskies captivate enthusiasts worldwide. A true symbol of exceptional craftsmanship, the Akkeshi distillery has established itself as a leading name in the world of Japanese whisky. Read less