Kyoto Whisky Mizunara Cask and Sherry Cask Win Their First Double Gold Medals at the SFWSC 2026, a Prestigious Spirits Competition in the United States!

Kyoto Whisky Mizunara Cask and Kyoto Whisky Sherry Cask, produced by Kyoto Shuzo Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as Kyoto Miyako Distillery), have each won a Gold Medal at the SFWSC 2026 (San Francisco World Spirits Competition), one of the most prestigious spirits competitions in the world, held in the United States.

This marks the first time that both products have received Gold Medals at this competition.
To allow customers to enjoy selecting our products locally as souvenirs or as a memorable keepsake from their travels, all of our products are available exclusively within Kyoto Prefecture.

■ Overview and Characteristics of the Award-Winning Products
The two products that received their first Gold Medals this year are blended to bring out the distinctive characteristics of their respective casks.

・Kyoto Whisky Mizunara Cask
Finished in Mizunara, a Japanese oak cask, this whisky features sweet aromas reminiscent of vanilla and coconut, along with an elegant fragrant wood note evoking sandalwood.
From its soft mouthfeel, a honey-like sweetness and subtle spiciness spread across the palate, followed by a pleasant lingering cask aroma. It is a Kyoto-style whisky that brings together the delicacy of Japan and Western whisky-making techniques.

◇Volume / 700ml
◇Alcohol Content / 43%
◇Ingredients / Malt and Grain (Domestic Production)

・Kyoto Whisky Sherry Cask
Finished in casks previously used for aging sherry, this whisky offers rich aromas reminiscent of raisins and dried fruits, together with a deep richness evoking dark chocolate.
Enjoy its smooth texture, sweetness reminiscent of nuts and caramel, and warm, lingering finish.

◇Volume / 700ml
◇Alcohol Content / 40%
◇Ingredients / Malt and Grain (Domestic Production)

■ About the SFWSC
Founded in 2000, the SFWSC is the largest spirits competition in the United States and is regarded as one of the most prestigious competitions in the world.
The judging panel consists of experienced professionals from a wide range of fields, including bartenders, chefs, hoteliers, and distribution buyers. Entries are evaluated through a rigorous blind tasting process.

■ A Souvenir or Travel Keepsake When Visiting Kyoto
These products are sold exclusively within Kyoto Prefecture at supermarkets, convenience stores, souvenir shops, liquor stores, and other retailers.
They are ideal not only as a personal keepsake from your trip, but also as a special gift for whisky lovers—an exclusive souvenir that can only be purchased in Kyoto.
When you visit Kyoto, we invite you to look for them in stores.

■ The Story Behind the Nishijin-ori Label
The defining feature of this series is its luxurious label made with Nishijin-ori, Kyoto’s traditional woven textile.
The soft texture of the label, carefully woven by skilled artisans, enhances the special appeal of being “available exclusively within Kyoto Prefecture.” It has been well received both as a gift and as a bottle to enjoy during special moments at home.

■ About Kyoto Miyako Distillery
Kyoto Miyako Distillery is located in Kyotamba Town, in the central part of Kyoto Prefecture, amid the beautiful natural surroundings of the Tamba Highlands. It is Kyoto’s first whisky distillery.
Kyotamba Town is surrounded by mountains, including Mt. Choro, and is characterized by a highland climate with significant temperature differences between day and night.
These temperature differences have a major impact on cask maturation, which is essential to whisky production, and help accelerate the aging process.
While striving to coexist with this rich natural environment, we will continue to preserve the fundamental methods of whisky making while embracing change and taking on new challenges.