Tradition and Innovation: Kagoshima's Nishi Shuzo Wins 'Best Distillery' at TWSC 2026!

Nishi Shuzo Co., Ltd. (Location: Hioki City, Kagoshima; Representative Director: Yoichiro Nishi) is proud to announce that it has received the 'Best Distillery (Best Imo Shochu Distillery)' award at the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition 2026 (TWSC2026), one of Asia's largest spirits competitions. This follows the recent 'Superior Gold' award for its 'Kitcho Houzan' shochu. Furthermore, 'Tenshi no Yuwaku Premium AGED 20 YEARS' won the Best Design Award, and 'Kitcho Houzan' won the Best Category Award. We are deeply honored by this recognition from domestic and international judges. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in our production and sales, as well as our loyal customers. We remain committed to crafting world-class shochu that reflects the local climate and history, striving for even higher quality.

TWSC is Japan's only large-scale competition that evaluates global whiskies and spirits using the delicate palate unique to the Japanese. The 'Best Distillery' award is presented by the TWSC Executive Committee to the most outstanding distillery of the year, based on independent research regardless of submission status.

'Tenshi no Yuwaku Premium AGED 20 YEARS' is a premium reserve aged for a total of 20 years in sherry casks. It offers a rich aroma and deep flavor that transcends the traditional concept of shochu. The luxury packaging reflects the 20-year maturation process.

'Kitcho Houzan,' made from Kagoshima-grown 'Koganesengan' sweet potatoes, is characterized by its balanced flavor, highlighting the natural sweetness and strength of the potato. It also received the 'Superior Gold' and 'BEST OF THE BEST' awards in the Shochu/Awamori category at TWSC 2026.