Togouchi Hiroshima Japanese Blended Whisky

Togouchi Hiroshima Japanese Blended Whisky Bottling Note

Produced by Sakurao Brewery and Distillery Co., Ltd., based in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima, Togouchi Whisky HIROSHIMA is a limited‑edition Japanese blended whisky released exclusively within Hiroshima Prefecture. It is bottled at 43% ABV in a 700ml format.

Togouchi whisky is created by blending malt and grain whiskies matured in two distinct ageing facilities: the Sakurao Warehouse in coastal Hatsukaichi, and the Togouchi Tunnel Warehouse located deep in the mountains of the former Togouchi town (now Akiota). The tunnel, stretching 361 metres, was originally excavated in 1970 for a planned extension of the JR Kabe Line. Although the railway project was never completed, the site was later repurposed by the distillery as a maturation space for whisky and shochu. Its naturally stable conditions—around 14°C and 80% humidity throughout the year—provide an ideal environment for the gentle, steady maturation that defines the Togouchi style.

All malt and grain whiskies used in this blend are distilled and matured at the Sakurao Distillery, meaning the whisky fully complies with the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association’s standards for “Japanese Whisky.” The “100% JAPANESE” statement on the label reflects the distillery’s commitment to authenticity.

What sets the HIROSHIMA edition apart from other Togouchi bottlings is its finish in red wine casks previously used by a winery within Hiroshima Prefecture. While the standard Premium expression and the various cask‑finish releases (sake, beer, peated, etc.) highlight diversity in ingredients and production methods, this edition is built around a direct connection to local Hiroshima produce. Inspired by the city’s symbolic colour “red”—seen in the torii gate of Miyajima, autumn foliage, and the Hiroshima Carp baseball team—the whisky incorporates the character of Hiroshima red wine casks. It is said to offer notes of strawberry‑like fruitiness, a faint touch of peat, and soft sweetness reminiscent of honey and confectionery. This non‑age‑statement limited release delivers a light mouthfeel with a lingering balance of sweetness and gentle acidity.

Togouchi Hiroshima Japanese Blended Whisky Tasting Note

Nose: Strawberry, berry chocolate, honey, nuts

Palate: Light and smooth; subtle sweetness of bitter chocolate, candy, and honey

Finish: Gentle caramel bitterness, a hint of peat, lactic acidity

Overall: Noticeable alcohol presence, yet the signature Togouchi character is clearly expressed, complemented by well‑integrated wine‑cask nuances. The wine influence is not overpowering, avoiding the negative elements sometimes associated with wine finishes.