How whisky matures in the unique climate and terroir of Aizu ⸻
KAZE represents a new chapter in the Tenkyo Distillery Project, a bold and visionary experiment by its founder, Shunsuke Koike.
By sourcing new-make spirit from three distilleries in Scotland and beginning maturation in Aizu,
he dreamed of creating something in Aizu — and sharing its spirit with the world.
It was a manifestation of his deep passion for craftsmanship, and his enduring love for his hometown of Aizu.
The spirit rode on the winds from Scotland. The wind from Aizu stirred the air with hope, lifting spirits.
It was at the crossing of those two winds that an unexpected blended whisky came to life.
Our mission is to honour and carry forward the legacy of the 189 casks of whisky he carefully selected from around the world―into the future.
How can it be shared, experienced, and enjoyed by people around the world?
How can we light the way back to Aizu?
By developing a *Solera System, and blending the finest traditions of whisky-making from both Scotland and Japan, the original recipe for KAZE was born.
His creative ambition knows no bounds ⸻ and like the ever-flowing wind, KAZE will never fade.
* Solera System
Inspired by the traditional solera method used in the aging of Spanish sherry, this unique system classifies the founder’s original whiskies by flavour profile and type — malt and grain. New, fully matured whiskies are then carefully added to each group, creating a continuous blending process.
This approach allows the founder’s original spirit to be perpetually carried forward, ensuring that his legacy lives on in every future drop.
Tenkyo Distillery is nestled at the foot of Mt. Bandai, the iconic peak of Aizu, standing proudly at 1,819 meters.
Among its three summits, Mt. Akahani rises to the southeast of the main peak, Obandai,
reaching an elevation of 1,430 meters.
The bottling strength is a quiet tribute to Mt. Akahani, which stands at 1,430m (4,690 ft).
Tasting Note
| Colour | Amber |
|---|---|
| Note | Raisins, figs, white chocolate, and brown sugar, with gentle spice and a refined smokiness on the finish. |
| Taste | Toffee, nuts, and almonds meet juicy apricot, gently embraced by soft smokiness, a rich, layered taste. |
| Finish | Hints of gentle bitterness and tobacco leaf balance sweet flavours, leaving a pleasant, lasting finish. |
Where Scotland
Meets Aizu
Neither Scotch whisky nor Japanese whisky —
Born in Scotland, raised in Aizu, Japan.
A fusion of culture and terroir, connected by “縁 En” (ties).
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Blair Bowman
A whisky consultant and broker based in Scotland, known for founding World Whisky Day, a global celebration of whisky, and actively promoting whisky culture worldwide.
He serves as Special Advisor and Board Member to Tenkyo Distillery, providing strategic guidance across whisky production, branding, and international market development. -
Brendan Maccarron
He is a globally respected whisky expert who has served as Master Distiller and Master Blender at some of the world’s most iconic distilleries, including Diageo, Glenmorangie, and Bunnahabhain. With unparalleled knowledge of whisky production and maturation strategies, he continues to advise distilleries across Scotland and internationally. With deep expertise in whisky production and maturation strategies, established the foundation of Tenkyo Distillery.
Collaborating closely with Chief Blender Narita, co-developed the KAZE solera system and original recipe.
Blending style stands out for the elegant expression of smoky flavours. -
Keiichi Narita
Chief Blender
With a background as a Toji (master brewer) at Eisen Sake Brewery, pursuing the traditional methods of sake brewing in Japan and Scotland with a focus on “fermentation”. Continuing to explore tradition and innovation through whisky making.
