Yamaya Distillery's 'Honkaku Shochu Aizome' and 'Japanese craft Gin MASAHARU' Win Gold at Kura Master 2026

Yamaya Distillery Co., Ltd., a group company of Yamaya Communications, is pleased to announce that 'Honkaku Shochu Aizome' won a gold medal in the Imo Shochu category, and 'Japanese craft Gin MASAHARU' won a gold medal in the Craft Koji Spirits category at the Kura Master 2026 competition held in France. 'Honkaku Shochu Aizome' continues its success from 2023, earning high acclaim both domestically and internationally. 'Japanese craft Gin MASAHARU' was recognized for its aroma and flavor, highlighting the natural ingredients of Miyazaki. Through these awards, Yamaya Distillery aims to further promote its traditional shochu-making and the charm of using regional ingredients to the world. [Award-winning Products] ■Honkaku Shochu Aizome: Made with 'Koganesengan' sweet potatoes, known for their high starch content and sweet aroma when steamed. It features a gentle shochu scent, natural sweetness, and a crisp finish, making it popular among younger generations and women. Recommended served on the rocks, with water, or as a highball. Price: 1,650 JPY (tax included), 25% ABV. ■Japanese craft Gin MASAHARU: A craft gin made with high-quality groundwater from Sanno Village, Miyazaki. In addition to juniper berries, it is infused with Miyazaki specialties 'Yuzu' and 'Hebesu'. It offers a simple, easy-to-drink profile with a sweet mouthfeel and a refreshing finish. Price: 3,850 JPY (tax included), 47% ABV. [Availability] Available at the Yamaya official online shop, direct retail stores, and stations/airports in Kyushu. [About Yamaya Distillery] Established in the early Meiji era in Saito City, Miyazaki, it has been crafting 'Yoshida Shochu' for 150 years, preserving traditional methods. [About Kura Master] A French-based competition for sake and shochu held since 2017, judged by top French sommeliers and industry professionals with a focus on food pairing.