SHINOBU Distillery

Nestled in Niigata Prefecture, where the Sea of Japan caresses the foothills of towering mountains, lies a land celebrated for its “Three White Treasures”—snow, rice, and sake. Amidst this serene beauty stands Shinobu Distillery, Niigata’s first distillery and a proud guardian of tradition and craftsmanship.

Dedication of a Samurai

Ken Usami, founder and master blender of Shinobu Distillery, embodies the spirit of "Shinobu", which means forbearance and patience in Japanese. He believes these qualities, echoing the dedication of a samurai, are essential for crafting exceptional whisky, with each bottle a testament to his unwavering perseverance.

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Pure Japanese Craftsmanship

At Shinobu Distillery, every step is meticulously executed to honor the legacy of Japanese whisky-making. With grains and soft water carefully mashed in dual 700L stainless steel mash tuns, the whisky is crafted with the utmost attention to detail. This delicate process imbues SHIN whiskies with a refined character that is both elegant and complex.

From the Mountains, For the Finest Flavors

Shinobu Distillery, set in the pristine seaside of Niigata, is shaped by its natural surroundings and source of the pure spring water. The region’s environmental harmony influences every step of production, imbuing SHIN whiskies with a unique, nature-driven character that reflects Niigata’s beauty.

Time-Honored Distillation at Shinobu

With two stages of careful distillation, Shinobu’s distilling process raises the initial ABV of 21% to a refined 64%. This eight-hour process, combined with Shinobu’s expertise, creates a whisky that balances strength with elegance, a quality that discerning whisky lovers will appreciate with every sip.

Aged to Perfection with Mizunara Oak

SHIN Malt Whisky undergoes a unique aging process in Bourbon, Sherry, and Hogshead casks before its final maturation in Mizunara oak. This finishing touch enhances its flavor with a distinctive Japanese character. Perfected over months, this finishing is timed to bring out the whisky’s warm, harmonious tones, especially during Japan’s summer season.