Japan’s Shindo Distillery releases first whisky

Berry Bros & Rudd has the exclusive UK rights to the first single malt from Japan’s Shindo Distillery, Shindo Experimental 01.

Shindo Experimental 01 Only 300 bottles are available in the UK

Family-owned sake and shochu company Shinozaki founded Shindo Distillery in Asakura, Fukuoka, in 2021.

The distillery is particularly focused on fermentation and uses a variety of yeasts to explore flavour.

Its inaugural release celebrates ‘innovation, complexity, and meticulous attention to detail’. The liquid is made from non-peated malted barley and is matured in a variety of casks, primarily ex-Bourbon (91%), as well as virgin mizunara (4%), oloroso Sherry (4%) and refill Scotch (1%).

Shindo Experimental 01 is bottled at 50% ABV, with only 300 bottles allocated to the UK.

Rob Whitehead, spirits buyer at Berry Bros & Rudd, said: “This is moreish mastery from Fukuoka in southern Japan, showing the delicious fruits of experimental fermentation and impeccable distillation. With only 300 bottles available in the UK, this limited release is really special.”

To support its distilling efforts, Shinozaki has been engaged in the forestry industry for the past 100 years, including planting mizunara trees to ensure a steady supply.

Shindo Experimental 01 Single Malt Japanese Whisky will be available to pre-order in bond (excluding VAT and duty) for £63.50 (US$84) from 30 October.

Berry Bros & Rudd recently unveiled a set of two single malt whiskies inspired by London’s last duel.