Shizuoka, Japan

Shizuoka's whisky culture is relatively new compared to other regions in Japan, with its first distillery, the Shizuoka Distillery, established in 2016. The region's entry into the whisky world was marked by a commitment to quality and innovation, leveraging the pristine natural resources of the area. The distillery was founded by Gaiaflow, a company initially involved in importing whisky, which decided to create its own unique expressions using both traditional and modern techniques.

Shizuoka Distillery is known for its meticulous approach to whisky production, utilizing both pot stills and a rare wood-fired still, which adds a distinctive character to their spirits. The region produces a variety of styles, including single malts that are often described as having a fresh, fruity profile with a hint of smokiness. An interesting fact about Shizuoka is that it uses water sourced from the Oi River, which is renowned for its purity. This commitment to using high-quality local ingredients and innovative techniques sets Shizuoka apart in the Japanese whisky landscape.