The first
Japanese whiskey
has a uniquely
American story.
THE TAKAMINE STORY
1891
Inspiration. Adversity.
Perseverance. Redemption.
When Japanese scientist Dr. Jokichi Takamine first used koji spores to create a maltless whiskey in a Peoria, Illinois distillery in 1891, his innovation promised to revolutionize the whiskey industry. However, a combination of arson, racism, backroom deals, and government agents derailed his revolution by early 1894.
Takamine went on to make historic contributions to medicine and culture — creating medical adrenaline and donating thousands of iconic cherry blossom trees to Washington, D.C. — but his patented whiskey process disappeared. Or so it seemed.
Takamine went on to make historic contributions to medicine and culture — creating medical adrenaline and donating thousands of iconic cherry blossom trees to Washington, D.C. — but his patented whiskey process disappeared. Or so it seemed.
The Revival of Takamine
Fortunately, the family-run Shinozaki Distillery, with permission from the Takamine Family Trust, revived the Takamine Process, and the iconic koji-fermented whiskey was reborn.
Crafted with Japanese koji and aged in American White Oak, Takamine Whiskey captures the beauty of both cultures in a classic spirit that lives up to its name.
Crafted with Japanese koji and aged in American White Oak, Takamine Whiskey captures the beauty of both cultures in a classic spirit that lives up to its name.