Hinch, the Irish Newcomer Awarded the Top Prize at WWA, Launches its Own Distilled Whisky in Japan for the First Time

Toko Co., Ltd. (Taito-ku, Tokyo), a liquor importer and wholesaler, will release two types of its first self-distilled single malts from the rising star "Hinch Distillery" of Northern Ireland nationwide in limited quantities starting April 2, 2026 (Thursday).

"Hinch Single Malt" won the category's highest award, "Best Irish Small Batch Single Malt," at the "World Whiskies Awards (WWA) 2026," the world's most prestigious whisky competition. This is a long-awaited release in Japan, carrying global acclaim. Furthermore, "Peated Single Malt," which revives traditional smokiness for the modern era, will also be launched simultaneously.

1. Hinch Single Malt

From Hinch Distillery in Northern Ireland, which began operations in 2020, comes a single malt made exclusively from its own distilled spirit. Under the founding vision of "Grain to Glass," 100% Irish barley, including from County Down, is used, with complete in-house management from distillation to maturation and bottling. Immediately after its release in March 2026, it won "Best Irish Small Batch Single Malt" at the World Whiskies Awards 2026 (WWA).

ALC.: 43%

Volume: 700ml

Suggested Retail Price: 4,800 yen + tax

Number of units received: 180 bottles

【Tasting Notes】

An elegant and well-balanced single malt. Aromas of orange, ginger, and honey. The palate is bright and refreshing, with notes of toffee apple, peach syrup, and biscuit.

2. Hinch Peated Single Malt

This is a single malt made exclusively from the first self-distilled spirit from Hinch Distillery, founded in 2020. While Irish whiskey is strongly associated with being unpeated, smoky whiskies were once widely enjoyed. Today, they are rare globally.