Miyagikyo Distillery

Miyagikyo Distillery, nestled in the pristine natural beauty of northern Japan, is a testament to the artistry and tradition of Japanese whisky-making. Established in 1969 by the renowned Masataka Taketsuru, who is revered as the father of Japanese whisky, the distillery is the second facility under the Nikka Whisky brand, following the celebrated Yoichi Distillery. Located in Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagikyo distillery lies amid lush landscapes, enveloped by dense forests and two clear rivers, the Hirose and Nikkawa, which provide optimal conditions for whisky maturation and influence its distinctive character.

The ethos of Miyagikyo revolves around creating whiskies that reflect the surrounding nature, resulting in a softer, fruitier style compared to its sibling distillery in Yoichi. The distillery boasts a range of products, including the Miyagikyo Single Malt, which is known for its elegance and complexity, alongside several expressions aged in a variety of cask types including American oak and sherry casks. Miyagikyo’s craftsmanship has garnered numerous awards and recognitions, solidifying its position in the realm of premium spirits. The distillery continuously innovates while maintaining the traditional methods that honor its heritage, embodying the spirit of craftsmanship in each bottle produced.

History

The history of Miyagikyo Distillery begins with its visionary founder, Masataka Taketsuru, who, after studying the art and science of whisky production in Scotland, returned to Japan with an ambition to create exceptional Japanese whisky. In 1969, he set up the Miyagikyo Distillery after carefully selecting the site for its unique environmental attributes, including the proximity to the Nikkawa and Hirose rivers and the rich, volcanic soil of the region. Since its inception, Miyagikyo has embraced a philosophy of quality over quantity. A significant milestone occurred shortly after the distillery opened, as the whisky produced quickly gained recognition for its unique flavor profile. Over the subsequent decades, the distillery expanded its facilities, which include traditional dunnage warehouses that house the whisky during its maturation. In celebration of its 50th anniversary in 2019, the distillery released two limited edition whiskies, showcasing the evolution of its craft over the decades. Furthermore, Miyagikyo remains a favorite among whisky aficionados and continues to innovate new expressions, solidifying its stature in the global whisky market.

Geography

Miyagikyo Distillery is strategically located in Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, which is situated on the northeastern coast of Honshu Island. The distillery is enveloped by picturesque mountains and dense forests, providing not only breathtaking views but also a unique microclimate ideal for whisky maturation. This area experiences a humid climate mixed with the cleansing effects of natural springs, which contributes to the quality of the water used in whisky production. Surrounded by the serene Hirose and Nikkawa rivers, the distillery utilizes water filtered through volcanic soil, which is known to impart a characteristic softness and complexity to the whisky. The confluence of these elements—mellow climate, pure water sources, and rich soil—allows Miyagikyo to craft whiskies that are smooth, fruity, and reflective of their natural surroundings. The connection to the land is integral to their production process, influencing not only the taste but also the overall philosophy of the distillery, which aims to harmonize its spirits with the environment from which they originate.

Miyagikyo Distillery

Introduction

History

Geography