Hishida Distillery is located in the Hishida district of Osaki Town, Kagoshima Prefecture, on the premises of Tensei Shuzo, a shochu brewery that has been in business since 1901. The distillery will begin operations in November 2022 and produce malt and grain whiskey using ultra-soft water from the Fugendō Spring, which was selected as one of the 100 best waters of the Heisei era. The distillery's distinctive features include a stainless steel primary still with a copper coil and a hybrid copper secondary still with a column. The distillery takes a different approach to craft whiskey production than the Liquor Mountain Group's Nagahama Distillery.
This "Newborn Prelude 2.5" is a blended whisky created with a new recipe based on the same concept as "Hishida Distillery Newborn Prelude 2," which was bottled for overseas markets in March 2025 and won the Best Cost Performance Award at "TWSC2025." Its rich style is approximately 80% malt whisky, with grain whisky (approximately 20%) consisting solely of malted barley, unmalted barley, and roasted unmalted barley called "chocolate barley." It is a blend of various whiskies aged in bourbon, Sauternes, and PX sherry casks. While aged for less than three years, the warm climate of Kagoshima Prefecture's Osumi Peninsula allows its rich character to emerge.
(Tasting notes)
Aroma: The top notes are powerful and distinct with a casking flavor reminiscent of vanilla and honey, and a solid, solid body that comes from aging. Accompanying these are the delicate aromas of the delicate and gorgeous whiskey from the sherry casks, which unfold in layers. Furthermore, pleasant floral accents from the wine casks and fruity, refined nuances add depth. At the same time, the unique aroma is pleasantly reminiscent of coffee, mocha, and nuts, blending beautifully with the other whiskeys.
Taste: A perfect blend of the strength and delicacy of Kyushu's tropical aging, and a unique aroma. The aroma of the oak barrels makes its presence felt on the tongue, followed by vibrant fruitiness and a soft mouthfeel.
Finish: The depth and richness of the Sauternes barrel-aged raw spirit adds a unique accent to the overall character, and the distinctive flavor of the roasted grain creates a complex, lingering aftertaste.
