Komoro Distillery is proud to announce the ‘Komoro Distillery Whisky Festival 2026,’ held over three days from March 20th (Fri/Holiday) to March 22nd (Sun), 2026.

Since we began distilling in the landmark year of the 100th anniversary of Japanese Whisky, this third edition of our festival—themed ‘Countdown to the First Release’—will feature a diverse range of programs both at the distillery and across the city of Komoro.

Unveiling the First Release Bottle Design

At the main venue, Komoro Distillery, we will reveal the design of our highly anticipated ‘First Release’ bottle for the very first time. As the storyteller of the liquid within, what aspirations are imbued in this bottle? How will its identity reflect the history, nature, and culture of Komoro? We invite you to witness the culmination of our journey as we unveil the world of Komoro Distillery through this design.

*Please note: General sales for the First Release bottle are scheduled for Winter 2026. There will be no pre-sales at this event.

Immersive Programs Reflecting Our Craft

Beyond the unveiling, the distillery will host tours of the production area, experiential workshops, and exclusive seminars. A highlight will be the Special Seminar by Master Blender Ian Chang. Over three days, joined by special guests, Ian will explore the philosophy behind Komoro’s whisky-making, our progress so far, and our vision for the future.

March 20 (Fri):
Masterclass with Ian Chang. Explore the potential of Komoro’s Spirit through a guided tasting. Ian will discuss the approach toward the First Release and the distillery’s long-term vision.

March 21 (Sat):
The Philosophy of Cask Seasoning Featuring Mr. Miguel Martín from José y Miguel Martín (Jerez, Spain).
We will explore the philosophy of Sherry cask production and seasoning, inspired by the late Dr. Jim Swan.
The session concludes with a dialogue between Miguel and Ian Chang on the characteristics of Sherry cask maturation at Komoro.

March 22 (Sun):
Guest Distillery Special Talk Show Welcoming Asaka Distillery (Fukushima) and Kanosuke Distillery (Kagoshima).
Enjoy a special talk show featuring all three distilleries while tasting selected expressions from each.

*Limited seating available. Advance reservation required (First-come, first-served).

Additionally, our distillery bartenders will host Short Seminars, including:

Pairings of Newborn Spirits (matured in Japanese Sakura and Chestnut casks) with seasonal Yokan (sweet bean jelly).

Highball workshops to learn professional techniques for your home.

*Limited seating available. Advance reservation required (Selected by lottery).

The distillery will also host experiences, including performances by the NHK Symphony Orchestra String Trio, the Komoro High School Music Department, and live painting by renowned artist Norio Nakajima.

Discover the Charm of a Town Bathed in Whisky

During the festival, the entire town transforms. Aio-dori Street becomes ‘Whisky Street,’ and the area from Komoro Station to the historic Hokkoku-kaido Road will be divided into three zones: History, Water & Craft, and Fermentation & Flavour.

At the Gallery Kamikurabu (Water & Craft Zone), we will host guest distillery seminars:

March 20 (Fri): Nozawa Onsen Distillery (Nagano)
March 21 (Sat): Asaka Distillery (Fukushima) & Kiwon Distillery (South Korea)
March 22 (Sun): Kanosuke Distillery (Kagoshima)

At special venues like Honmachi Machiyakan and Aio Kaikan, you can enjoy whisky tastings and sales, local wine, sake, and regional delicacies. Other highlights include miso and amazake tastings, whisky-infused food, a food market, and a traditional Hina-doll display. Don’t miss our Stamp Rally with exclusive prizes!

Access & Details

A dedicated Festival Loop Bus will run between the distillery, Komoro Station, and each festival zone. You can also use the ‘Komoro City Loop Bus’ (500 yen for a 1-day pass) to explore nearby wineries and hot springs.

Join us in Komoro for the start of a new ‘Whisky Journey.’

[Book Your Tickets Here]: https://cloud-pass.jp/get/6f54728b46b8c214cd779794e958f9baceaa919bf62fe838451a7e2739cd1abd 

Event Overview:

Dates: March 20 (Fri) – March 22 (Sun), 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Venue hours may vary)

Venues: Komoro Distillery and special venues across Komoro City

Tickets:

Advance 1-Day Pass: 4,000 JPY

At the Door: 5,000 JPY
*Special programs/seminars require additional fees.
*Under 20s: Free entry if accompanied by an adult (Not eligible for alcohol-related programs).