Kikunotsuyu Shuzo Launches New Barrel-Aged Awamori Series "Southern Barrel"

Kikunotsuyu Southern Barrel Series

Kikunotsuyu Shuzo Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Miyakojima City, Okinawa) will renew the package design of its barrel-aged awamori "Kikunotsuyu Koshu Southern Barrel" (720ml bottle, 1,800ml bottle *1,800ml bottle is label only) for the first time in 31 years. Additionally, the company will launch two new liqueurs, "Kikunotsuyu SOUTHERN BARREL Brandy note / Sherry note," as new additions to the lineup.

Background of the Series Launch

Kikunotsuyu Shuzo has been dedicated to awamori production in Miyakojima for many years. The "Southern Barrel" series brings together its aged awamori and barrel-aged liqueurs, previously developed individually, under the common value of "aging awamori in barrels" and a worldview rooted in the climate of Miyakojima.

This series aims to create new value for awamori. Unlike barrel-aged spirits from around the world such as whiskey and brandy, awamori starts from a different point. The gentle mouthfeel and softness of "Kikunotsuyu," an awamori born from rice and black koji, form the foundation. By refining this character over a long period in barrels, the barrel aromas blend smoothly without being harsh. We pursue a taste that can only be created with awamori.

We will continue to expand the possibilities of barrel aging and propose new ways to enjoy awamori.

Barrels in the aging cellar. We will continue to develop awamori aged in barrels with different characteristics.

Southern Barrel Series Lineup

Koshu Southern Barrel

Launched in 1992. Characterized by the gorgeous aroma of oak barrels and Kikunotsuyu's signature mellow and sweet flavor.

This time, the package has been renewed to match the series' worldview. The richness and mellow flavor of barrel-aged awamori are expressed in gold. Additionally, hibiscus, palm trees, and Ryukyu-style decorative motifs have been incorporated, creating a design that evokes the vibrancy of tropical Okinawa.

Kikunotsuyu Koshu Southern Barrel 25%

SOUTHERN BARREL Brandy note

Released in August, limited to 1,000 bottles

Aged for 9 years in brandy barrels, characterized by fruity and woody aromas. Sweet notes like apricot and jasmine, with a bitter richness.

Kikunotsuyu Southern Barrel Brandy Note 35%

SOUTHERN BARREL Sherry note

Released in August, limited to 1,000 bottles

Aged for 9 years in sherry barrels, characterized by a rich, sweet aroma. Sweet notes like raisins and dried fruits, with a deep richness.

Kikunotsuyu Southern Barrel Sherry Note 35%

Comments from the Production Manager

We have inherited the tradition of awamori making on Miyakojima, loved by our fans. We are very pleased to be able to deliver these products as a single "Southern Barrel" series by renewing the packaging of our aged awamori and adding two new liqueurs specifically focused on barrel characteristics. We hope that as many people as possible will enjoy these unique barrel-aged spirits that can only be created with awamori.

Kikunotsuyu Shuzo Production Manager: Nobuhiro Kakazu

Product Overview

"Kikunotsuyu Koshu Southern Barrel"

Category: Awamori

Volume/Container: 720ml bottle, 1,800ml bottle (*1,800ml bottle label only renewed)

Alcohol Content: 25%

*The switch will be made sequentially as old designs run out.

There will be no changes to the contents, volume, or alcohol content, price, or JAN code.

"Kikunotsuyu SOUTHERN BARREL Brandy note"

Category: Liqueur

Barrel/Aging Period: Brandy barrel / 9 years

Volume/Container: 375ml / Bottle (in gift box)

Alcohol Content: 35%

Release Date: Early August 2026

Sales Area: Retail stores within Okinawa Prefecture / Official EC site (https://kikunotsuyu.thebase.in/)

Production Volume: Limited to 1,000 bottles

"Kikunotsuyu SOUTHERN BARREL Sherry note"

Category: Liqueur

Barrel/Aging Period: Sherry barrel / 9 years

Volume/Container: 375ml / Bottle (in gift box)

Alcohol Content: 35%

Release Date: Early August 2026

Sales Area: Retail stores within Okinawa Prefecture / Official EC site (https://kikunotsuyu.thebase.in/)

Production Volume: Limited to 1,000 bottles

About Kikunotsuyu Shuzo Co., Ltd.

Location: 290 Nishi-sato, Hirara, Miyakojima City, Okinawa

Founded: 1928

Business Activities: Manufacturing and sales of awamori

Official Website: https://www.kikunotsuyu.co.jp/

Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kikunotsuyu_info/

Official EC Site: https://kikunotsuyu.thebase.in/

▼ Inquiries regarding this matter

Kikunotsuyu Shuzo Co., Ltd. Public Relations

TEL: 098-868-5086

E-mail: [email protected]