Announcement of the 'iichiko IRODORI Cocktail Competition 2026 Japan Final'

Sanwa Shurui Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Usa City, Oita Prefecture / President and CEO: Kazuki Nishi) is pleased to announce the launch of the 'iichiko IRODORI Cocktail Competition 2026 Japan Final.' Entry applications will begin today, June 17 (Wednesday).

This competition was designed as a platform for bartenders across Japan to showcase their creativity and technical skills using authentic barley shochu 'iichiko Saiten.' The inaugural event last year attracted 275 applicants nationwide, demonstrating strong industry interest.

The second edition this year is themed 'IRODORI: Koji × CULTURES,' progressing through a first-round document screening and a second-round video evaluation, culminating in the Japan Final to be held in Tokyo on Friday, November 6. The winner will receive an invitation to the Global Final scheduled for spring 2027, as well as an all-expenses-paid tour to 'Tales of the Cocktail,' the world's largest bar and cocktail industry festival in New Orleans, USA, and a visit to New York.

We hope this competition will lead to the rediscovery of new charm and potential in authentic shochu, crafted by talented bartenders and shared with a wider audience.

For more details, visit the official website.

About the 'iichiko IRODORI Cocktail Competition'

The 'iichiko IRODORI Cocktail Competition' was created as a stage for bartenders nationwide to compete using authentic barley shochu 'iichiko Saiten.' The name 'Irodori' (meaning 'coloring') expresses the hope of adding new, unique colors to the global cocktail scene through each bartender's individuality and talent.

Last year's inaugural competition attracted 275 entries from across Japan, generating significant interest. This year's second edition, themed 'IRODORI: Koji × CULTURES,' will explore new possibilities in cocktail creation by combining Japan-born 'koji' (fermentation starter) with diverse cultures and sensibilities from around the world and across Japan.

Entry applications open today, June 17 (Wednesday), with the first-round finalists (TOP 50) to be announced on August 20 (Thursday), followed by the second-round finalists (TOP 7) on September 24 (Thursday). Ultimately, the winner will be decided at the Japan Final (live judging) to be held in Tokyo on November 6 (Friday). The champion will earn the right to compete in the Global Final against winners from North America, Europe, and Asia for the title of world's best bartender, along with an invitation to 'Tales of the Cocktail' in New Orleans and a New York tour.

■ Competition Overview

Cocktail Theme

IRODORI: Koji × CULTURES

Your Culture. Your Color. One Glass.

First Round Application Period

June 17 (Wed), 2026 – July 31 (Fri), 2026, 23:59 JST

Entry Form: [Link]

About 'iichiko Saiten'

An authentic barley shochu that fully expresses the umami derived from Japan's traditional koji fermentation. Developed in collaboration with top bartenders in San Francisco, USA, it features the rich aroma and deep, lingering finish unique to distilled spirits made with koji.

Enjoy its distinctive character not only as a shot or on the rocks, but also as a cocktail base.

■ 'iichiko Saiten' Product Details

Official Website: https://www.wa-spirits.com/ja

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iichiko_wa_spirits

About Sanwa Shurui Co., Ltd.

Sanwa Shurui Co., Ltd. is a comprehensive fermentation and distillation company engaged in the production of a wide range of fermented products. Its portfolio includes the well-known authentic barley shochu 'iichiko,' as well as shochu, sake, wine, brandy, liqueurs, spirits, sparkling beverages, and food ingredients made from barley fermentation liquid produced during the shochu manufacturing process.

■ Headquarters: 2231-1 Yamamoto, Usa City, Oita Prefecture

■ Established: 1958

■ Business: Alcohol and food manufacturing

■ Company Website: https://www.sanwa-shurui.co.jp

■ Online Shop: Sanwa Shurui ONLINE SHOP https://shop.sanwa-shurui.co.jp