Former Asahi Breweries & Nikka Whisky Ambassador Hajime Sato Appointed as Nagahama Distillery Ambassador

Nagahama Roman Beer Co., Ltd. (Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture), operator of Japan's smallest whisky distillery 'Nagahama Distillery', has decided to welcome Mr. Hajime Sato, former Asahi Breweries and Nikka Whisky ambassador, as its official brand ambassador. The deep expertise of Mr. Sato, who has built Japan's whisky culture along with numerous fine liquors over many years, will merge with the spirit of 'One Brew, One Cask' upheld by Nagahama Distillery. Moving beyond the framework of craft whisky, they will further improve quality and strengthen cultural promotion both domestically and internationally. Background of the Appointment Since its operation began in 2016, Nagahama Distillery has challenged itself with unconventional whisky making unique to a small-scale distillery, receiving high praise in global awards. On the other hand, Mr. Hajime Sato, during his time at Nikka Whisky, inherited the passion of Masataka Taketsuru and has fascinated many fans with his profound knowledge, truly making him an evangelist of the Japanese whisky world. This partnership was realized because Mr. Sato resonated with the 'potential' and 'challenging spirit' of Nagahama Distillery. By adding the sensibility of Mr. Sato, who knows traditional techniques inside out, to the young and passionate site of Nagahama, a chemical reaction will create new value. Future Outlook Inheriting Expertise and Creating Places for Nationwide Exchange Going forward, utilizing Mr. Sato's rare experience, we will energetically hold seminars that delve deeply into the history and vision of Nagahama Distillery. Mr. Sato himself, who knows Japanese whisky history, will serve as the instructor, lecturing widely and deeply on its essence to everyone from professionals to enthusiasts. We also plan to actively participate in whisky events nationwide. With Mr. Sato traveling around as an ambassador, we will deliver the appeal of Nagahama Whisky nationwide through direct interaction with fans. Hello everyone, my name is Hajime Sato, and I have recently been appointed as the ambassador for Nagahama Distillery. I have worked in the liquor industry for about 40 years, and in my previous job, for about 9 years until retirement, I worked as a whisky ambassador, interacting with customers at whisky seminars and events nationwide with the goal of promoting fandom, expanding the whisky population, and enhancing brand value. In 2019, I obtained the 'Master of Whisky' certification recognized by the Whisky Cultural Institute (the 10th person nationwide). Under the spirit of 'One Brew, One Cask,' together with the staff who are making delicious whisky with burning passion, I intend to properly convey the appeal of the Nagahama brand to everyone. I look forward to working with you. Began operation in 2016 within the Nagahama Roman Beer facility, nurtured by the climate of Lake Biwa, Mt. Ibuki, and Nagahama, it is the smallest scale in Japan