The JW logo was established by the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA) on March 27, 2025, and is displayed exclusively on products that comply with the association’s voluntary standards for Japanese whisky.
The logo was introduced to enhance recognition of Japanese whisky both in Japan and overseas and to help consumers identify qualifying products with confidence.

As a member of the JSLMA, SAKURAO Brewery & Distillery produces all of its current whiskies, including both single malt and blended whiskies, in accordance with these voluntary standards.
Please note that there will be no changes to the contents or quality of the products.

SAKURAO Brewery & Distillery will continue to contribute to the growth of Japanese whisky and the further development of the industry as a whole.

Released in 2025 as an export-exclusive expression, RUM CASK FINISH is currently available primarily in France and other European markets. The TOGOUCHI Blended Japanese Whisky range has continued to expand beyond its signature expression, TOGOUCHI PREMIUM, with distinctive cask-finished releases such as SAKE CASK FINISH and BEER CASK FINISH. RUM CASK FINISH represents the latest evolution of the series, showcasing a new approach to cask maturation.

The whisky is first matured for approximately two years in a combination of casks, including bourbon barrels, before undergoing an additional two-year finishing period in rum casks. The result is a bright amber whisky with pastry-like aromas reminiscent of vanilla, complemented by a smooth, mellow sweetness on the palate. The finish reveals notes of caramelised sweetness layered with the rich character of rum, creating a long and complex aftertaste.

This recognition further strengthens the TOGOUCHI brand’s presence in the European market and reflects our ongoing commitment to sharing the craftsmanship and appeal of Japanese whisky with whisky lovers around the world.

Product Information

■Product Name

：　TOGOUCHI Blended Japanese Whisky RUM CASK FINISH

■Category

：　Whisky

■Volume

：　700 mL

■Alcohol Content

：　43% ABV

With this move, we remain committed to enhancing our services and strengthening our support for customers and business partners. We sincerely appreciate your continued trust and support.

New Office Information

■New Address

：　H1O Hamamatsucho Room 1203

 

　1-2-14 Shibadaimon, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0012, Japan

■Telephone

：　+81-3-5733-0212

■Opening Date

：　November 28, 2025

■Access

：　2-minute walk from Daimon Station (Toei Oedo Line / Toei Asakusa Line)

 

　4-minute walk from Onarimon Station (Toei Mita Line)

 

　6-minute walk from Hamamatsucho Station (JR Lines / Tokyo Monorail)

Background and Purpose of the Alliance
Since its establishment in 1918, SAKURAO B&D has been producing a diverse range of alcoholic beverages—including sake, shochu, liqueurs, and whisky—in Sakurao, Hiroshima, while preserving a strong commitment to local craftsmanship and tradition.

In 2017, the company launched SAKURAO DISTILLERY, marking its entry into the production of premium Japanese gin and whisky. Following its corporate name change in 2021, SAKURAO B&D further strengthened its premium spirits business. In November 2025, the company is scheduled to begin trial operations at its new distillery, SAKURAO DISTILLERY FOREST SITE, located in Yoshiwa, Hatsukaichi.

As the company enters this new stage of growth, SAKURAO B&D has chosen to partner with MCPI to reinforce its management foundation, accelerate business expansion, and create new long-term value while pursuing further global growth.

Future Initiatives
Through this strategic partnership, SAKURAO B&D will leverage the extensive expertise and business network of MCPI and the Mitsui & Co. Group across the food and beverage industry.

The collaboration will provide support in areas including:

• Business management and operational improvement
• Digital transformation (DX)
• International business development
• Marketing and brand strategy
• Human resources
• Supply chain optimization

The partnership is expected to further accelerate the company’s growth while strengthening its competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.

Looking ahead, SAKURAO B&D will continue expanding its whisky business worldwide while promoting new product development utilizing local resources, strengthening tourism collaborations, and advancing sustainable production initiatives. Through these efforts, the company aims to share Hiroshima’s rich whisky and spirits culture with the world.

Message from Koichiro Shirai, President & CEO
“SAKURAO Brewery & Distillery is entering the next chapter of its more than 100-year history while remaining true to the craftsmanship and distilling traditions cultivated in our hometown of Sakurao.

Through our partnership with Mitsui & Co. Principal Investments, we will further strengthen our business foundation and continue delivering exceptional spirits from Hiroshima to customers around the world.”

— Koichiro Shirai
President & CEO
SAKURAO Brewery & Distillery Co., Ltd.

Company Profile

■Company

：　SAKURAO Brewery & Distillery Co., Ltd.

■Head Office

：　1-12-1 Sakurao, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 738-8602, Japan

■Established

：　October 8, 1918

■Capital

：　JPY 100 million

■President & CEO

：　Koichiro Shirai

■Telephone

：　+81-829-32-2111

Contact
For inquiries regarding this announcement, please contact:
Corporate Administration Division
SAKURAO Brewery & Distillery Co., Ltd.
/en/contact/

The new website introduces the product concept, flavor profile, serving suggestions, and brand story while providing the latest product information and campaign updates.

Following its convenience store debut, the product will gradually expand into supermarkets and liquor retailers across Japan.