Hakutake KAORU Wins Double Gold, BEAR’S BOOK Wins Gold at SFWSC 2026

At the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) held in San Francisco, USA, in May 2026, 'Hakutake KAORU,' produced by Takahashi Shuzo Co., Ltd., was awarded the Double Gold Medal in the Shochu category (96 points), and 'BEAR’S BOOK' received the Gold Medal in the Gin category (95 points).

The SFWSC is one of the most prestigious spirits competitions in the world, highly regarded as an international benchmark for quality assessment in the spirits industry. The judging is conducted through a rigorous blind tasting process by top buyers, bartenders, and spirits experts, ensuring fair and reliable evaluation.

■ Hakutake KAORU Product Overview
Conceptually created for younger generations and women who are not accustomed to drinking shochu, 'Hakutake KAORU' is a fruity, authentic rice shochu that pairs perfectly with soda. Suggested retail price: 1,429 yen (including tax); Alcohol content: 25%.

■ BEAR’S BOOK Product Overview
An authentic craft gin made with multiple botanicals, mainly citrus and tea leaves from Kumamoto Prefecture, accented with Japanese spices such as ginger and Japanese pepper (sansho), and enhanced with ethical 'rice husks' for depth. Suggested retail price: 4,180 yen (including tax); Alcohol content: 45%.