Kyoto Whisky Wins Double Gold at US Spirits Competition SFWSC 2026

Kyoto Shuzo Co., Ltd. (Kyoto Miyako Distillery) has announced that "Kyoto Whisky Mizunara Cask" and "Kyoto Whisky Sherry Cask" have each won a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) 2026, one of the most prestigious spirits competitions in the world.

This is the first time both products have received Gold Medals at this competition.

To offer customers the pleasure of discovering and purchasing local products during their travels, all of our products are sold exclusively within Kyoto Prefecture.

Product Overview and Characteristics

The two award-winning products are blended to showcase the unique characteristics of different casks.

- Kyoto Whisky Mizunara Cask

Finished in casks made of Japanese Mizunara oak, this whisky features a sweet aroma reminiscent of vanilla and coconut, paired with an elegant, sandalwood-like woody fragrance.

The smooth mouthfeel gives way to a honey-like sweetness, subtle spiciness, and a pleasant oak finish, resulting in a Kyoto-style bottle that blends Japanese delicacy with Western distilling techniques.

* Suggested Retail Price: 3,500 yen (excl. tax) / 3,850 yen (incl. tax) * Volume: 700ml * Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 43% * Ingredients: Malt, Grain (domestically manufactured)

- Kyoto Whisky Sherry Cask

Finished in casks previously used to age sherry, this whisky achieves a rich aroma of raisins and dried fruits, coupled with a deep richness reminiscent of dark chocolate.

Enjoy the smooth texture, nutty and caramel sweetness, and warm finish.

* Suggested Retail Price: 3,000 yen (excl. tax) / 3,300 yen (incl. tax) * Volume: 700ml * Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 40% * Ingredients: Malt, Grain (domestically manufactured)

About SFWSC

Established in 2000, SFWSC is the largest spirits competition in the United States and one of the most prestigious tasting competitions in the world.

The judging panel comprises industry experts, including experienced bartenders, chefs, hotel managers, and distributors, who evaluate entries through strict blind tastings.

Souvenirs and Travel Memorabilia of Kyoto

These products are sold exclusively in Kyoto Prefecture at supermarkets, convenience stores, souvenir shops, and liquor stores.

They serve as excellent travel keepsakes or special gifts for whisky enthusiasts. When visiting Kyoto, please look for them on retail shelves.

The Concept Behind the Nishijin-ori Label

The defining feature of this series is the label, which luxuriously uses "Nishijin-ori," a traditional Kyoto textile craft.

Woven by skilled craftsmen, the soft texture of the label enhances the premium feel of this "Kyoto Exclusive" product, making it perfect as a gift or for a special evening at home.

About Kyoto Miyako Distillery

Kyoto Miyako Distillery is the first whisky distillery in Kyoto, located in Kyotamba Town, surrounded by the beautiful nature of the Tanba Highlands in central Kyoto Prefecture.

Kyotamba is surrounded by mountains, including Mt. Chogadatake, and is characterized by a highland climate with significant temperature fluctuations between day and night.

This temperature difference greatly impacts the cask maturation process, accelerating the aging of the whisky.

While striving to coexist with this rich natural environment, we inherit basic whisky-making techniques and continue to embrace new challenges.

Company Profile

* Company Name: Kyoto Shuzo Co., Ltd. * Location: 11 Sakahara Minamilin, Kyotamba-cho, Funai-gun, Kyoto 629-1131, Japan * Website: https://kyotoshuzo.com/

Product Inquiries

Kyoto Shuzo Co., Ltd. * Tel: +81-771-84-0110 * Email: info@kyotoshuzo.co.jp (Please refrain from non-product inquiries.)

Press Release Inquiries

Public Relations, Kyoto Shuzo Co., Ltd. * Email: pr@kyotoshuzo.co.jp (Please refrain from marketing or sales inquiries.)