Kuju Distillery’s latest release is set to hit shelves in April. The “michi” series—which, unlike the previous “sora” series, is released once a year—will be added to the lineup.
1. Single Malt KUJU “michi RD.26”
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The “michi” series seeks to capture the essence of Kuju as expressed in a given year, following the “path” of evolution in the base spirit and production methods that mature year after year.We recognize that this path is not as smooth as a mountain trail, but we are committed to sharing this journey as we strive to create the most delicious whisky that embodies the essence of Kuju.This blend is primarily composed of unpeated bourbon barrels and refill casks, and this release is characterized by green fruit aromas and a concentrated, malty sweetness.In particular, the green fruit aromas—such as green apple and pear—are more pronounced than in THE FIRST, resulting in a vibrant flavor profile.The product name “RD.26” stands for “Road2026.” It is the abbreviation for “road” as used in English on maps and other documents. We chose this name to express Kuju’s journey, advancing step by step as if climbing a mountain path.We plan to release this once a year. We hope you will enjoy following Kuju’s journey with us.Source: Distillery Official Facebook
2. Product Information
| Alcohol Content | Unknown |
| Type | Single Malt Japanese Whisky |
| Cask Type |
Primarily unpeated bourbon barrels and refill casks |
| Content Capacity | 700ml |
| Suggested Retail Price | Unknown |
| Release Date | Scheduled for release in April 2026 |
3. About the Kuju Distillery
Kuju Distillery
| Distillery Name | Kuju Distillery |
| Location | 878-0201 6426 Kuju, Kuju-machi, Taketa-City, Oita Prefecture |
| Start of Operations | February 2021 |
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Located in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. Situated at an elevation of approximately 600 meters, the distillery is surrounded by a cool climate and the majestic natural scenery of the Kuju Highlands. Believing this land, blessed with crystal-clear air and abundant spring water, to be ideal for whisky production, we built the distillery here.
The Kuju Highlands are located within Aso-Kuju National Park. The area maintains its unique grasslands burning off the fields, creating what could be described as a special environment. The water used comes from abundant underground springs.
President Udota received training at the Chichibu Distillery, and Production Manager Takeishi also trained at the Tsunuki Distillery.
The stills are manufactured by Forsyth in Scotland. While the malt is primarily imported, 10% is sourced from barley grown within the prefecture.
There are five Douglas fir fermentation tanks. The fermentation period lasts five days.
The distillery is attracting attention for its close ties to the local community, including hosting tours for local elementary schools.
Please also see the information on the Kuju Distillery below.
4. Introduction to Past Distillery Products
Lastly: Recommended Books on Japanese Whisky
If you want to learn more about Japanese whisky, which is a global trend, we highly recommend these books.
(1).Whisky Galore Vol.29 December 2021 issue
In the December 2021 issue of Whisky Galore, published by the Whisky Culture Research Institute, we report on 11 Japanese craft distilleries, including some that are open to the public for the first time, under the title of “Japanese Whisky Craft Frontline,” the first of three consecutive issues. Why did the popularity of Japanese whisky and the craft boom occur? We will examine with interviews. Chichibu Distillery / Chichibu No.2 Distillery / Mars Shinshu Distillery / Mars Tsunuki Distillery / Kanosuke Distillery / Hioki Distillery / Ontake Distillery / Osuzuyama Distillery / Kaikyo Distillery / Hanyu Distillery / Konosu Distillery
(2). Japanese Whisky as an Education for Business
This is a book written by Mamoru Tsuchiya, a world-famous whisky critic and representative of the Whisky Culture Research Institute, titled “Japanese Whisky as a Culture that Works for Business” .
The book covers the basics of whisky, the introduction of whisky to Japan, the birth of Japanese whisky, advertising strategies and the rise of Japanese whisky, and the current rise of craft distilleries. This is a book that summarizes Japanese whisky in a very easy to understand way.
(3). Whisky and I (Masataka Taketsuru)
Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Nikka Whisky, devoted his life to brewing whisky in Japan. This is a revised and reprinted version of the autobiography of a man who simply loved whisky and talked about himself. The book vividly depicts the days when he went to Scotland alone to study as a young man and overcame many hardships to complete Japanese whisky, as well as his companion, Rita.
(4). A Letter of Challenge from a New Generation Distillery
Launching in 2019. With the world experiencing an unprecedented whisky boom, what were the managers of craft distilleries thinking and what were their thoughts as they took on the challenge of making whisky? This book tells the stories of 13 craft distillery owners, including Ichiro Hido of Venture Whisky, famous for his Ichirose Malt, who inspired the birth of craft distilleries in Japan.
(5). Whiskey Rising
This is the Japanese version of Whisky Risng, published in the US in 2016, with much updated content. Not only does it describe the history of Japanese whisky in detail, but it also includes data on all the distilleries in Japan, including the craft distilleries that have been founded in recent years. The book also includes descriptions of the legendary bottles that have been released, as well as information on bars where Japanese whisky can be found.
