Description
The Aka-Obi (Red Belt) is the approachable and highly versatile blended expression from the Kyoto Miyako Distillery.
Crafted in the serene Kyamba-cho region of Kyoto, this whisky is designed to offer a “well-balanced” experience that transitions seamlessly across all drinking styles—from a clean neat pour to a refreshing highball.
In keeping with the distillery’s commitment to Kyoto’s artisanal history, the bottle features an exquisite Nishijin-ori (silk-woven) label in a vibrant crimson, symbolizing the elegance and craftsmanship of the ancient capital.
The Craft: Balance and Versatility
The Aka-Obi is a masterful marriage of selected malt and grain whiskies, carefully blended to achieve a profile that is both flavorful and exceptionally smooth.
Pristine Kyoto Water: The soft water of the Yura River is used throughout the production process, contributing to the whisky’s characteristically gentle mouthfeel.
The Blend: By balancing the richness of malt with the light, clean profile of grain spirit, the distillery has created a whisky that remains expressive even when diluted.
Traditional Aesthetics: The Red Belt designation and the hand-woven silk label highlight its status as a premium gift and a staple for Japanese spirits enthusiasts.
The Appearance: Bright, clear amber.
The Nose: Fragrant and sweet. The bouquet is dominated by an inviting vanilla-like aroma, layered with subtle notes of toasted cereal and honey.
The Palate: Light to medium-bodied with a smooth, “exquisite” texture. It offers a gentle sweetness on the entry, followed by a harmonious blend of malted barley and soft oak.
The Finish: Clean and refreshing, with a faint lingering of sweet spice.
ISC (International Spirits Challenge)Silver Medal 2023
SFWSC (San Francisco World Spirits)Silver Medal 2023
IWSC (International Wine & Spirit)Bronze Medal 2023
Producer Profile
The New Standard of Kyoto Whisky
Kyoto Shuzo is a pioneer in the craft spirits world, standing as the first whisky distillery in the historic city of Kyoto. Located in the picturesque Kyotamba region—a highland area known for its extreme temperature shifts and pristine water sources the distillery combines centuries-old Japanese craftsmanship with a modern, innovative approach to blending.
Under the label Kyoto Whisky, the distillery has quickly gained international acclaim for its “scents of Kyoto,” capturing the refined and serene spirit of Japan’s ancient capital in every bottle.
The Terroir: The Gift of Kyotamba
The secret to Kyoto Shuzo’s distinct profile lies in the unique climate of Kyotamba. Situated in a mountainous plateau, the distillery experiences a vast difference in temperature between day and night. These fluctuations accelerate the interaction between the whisky and the oak casks, resulting in a depth of flavor and maturity that belies the whisky’s age.
This process is fueled by the region’s exceptionally soft and pure water, filtered through the surrounding mountains, which provides the silky, elegant mouthfeel that is a hallmark of the Kyoto Whisky style.
The Craft: Artistry in the Blend
Kyoto Shuzo focuses on a philosophy of “Harmony and Balance.” By utilizing a variety of cask types including Bourbon, Sherry, and toasted American Oak—the distillery creates complex, multi-layered spirits.
- Traditional Excellence: The distillery employs a range of maturation techniques to ensure that each expression offers a distinct personality, from rich and smoky to floral and delicate.
- The Nishijin-ori Label: In a tribute to Kyoto’s cultural heritage, the premium “Kyoto Whisky” range features labels made of Nishijin-ori—a traditional woven silk textile from Kyoto. This artisan touch reflects the luxury and meticulous detail found inside the bottle.
- Global Recognition: Despite its young history, Kyoto Shuzo has already secured prestigious awards, including Gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) and the International Spirits Challenge (ISC).
