Nishi Shuzo, one of Japan’s oldest family-owned distilling companies, has claimed the highest awards at the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition (TWSC) 2026. The results recognized the firm’s shochu heritage and the emergence of its young whisky brand, Ontake Distillery.
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READ THE STORYThe company’s Shōchū Kiccho Hozan was awarded Highest Gold before being named Best of the Best, the top accolade in its category.
Nishi Shuzo was also recognized as Best Distillery.
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Ontake Distillery earned further success at the competition. Its Single Cask Strength Japanese Whisky Ontake No.18 received both Highest Gold and the Japan Grand Prix.
The distillery has now collected more than 13 awards across international whisky competitions, a notable total for such a young producer.
Ontake has only recently begun releasing whisky. The brand is built on more than 180 years of distilling expertise at Nishi Shuzo.
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The distillery has gained international attention for its house style, shaped by mountain spring water, long fermentations, and cask selection.
Ontake has become recognized for its use of rare ex-Solera sherry butts. These casks are difficult to source in today’s market but create whiskies with depth even at younger ages.
"We are very honored to receive such awards," said Yoichiro Nishi, CEO of Nishi Shuzo. "They are a reflection of the dedication of our entire team, from the distillers who produce our spirits to the warehouse team who oversee their maturation."
Nishi added: "We are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported us on this journey."
Nishi Shuzo has spent centuries building its reputation as one of Japan’s leading producers. The company positions Ontake as its vision for the future.
The ambition has been to produce a spirit worthy of the house name, rather than simply create another Japanese whisky.
The TWSC is one of Japan’s most prominent spirits contests, judged by industry professionals across whisky, shochu, and other categories.
Japanese whisky continues to command strong global demand. Rare bottlings and single casks have become sought-after among collectors and specialist retailers alike.
