Initial Release of 4,000 Bottles to Begin on 7 November 2026
First Release Week to Feature Exclusive Programmes, Including Masterclasses by Ian Chang and a Special Pairing Experience with Akafuku

 

Komoro Distillery is pleased to announce the release of its first single malt Japanese whisky, KOMORO ORIGIN, with an initial allocation of 4,000 bottles (700ml) available from 7 November 2026.

Created through the combined influence of Komoro’s natural environment, the skill of its makers and years of patient maturation, KOMORO ORIGIN represents both an important milestone and the beginning of a much longer journey. The thoughts and aspirations behind this inaugural release have been expressed through the design of the bottle and label.

Three Rings and the Komoro Violet: A Commitment to Craftsmanship
The bottle incorporates the distillery’s signature Three Rings motif, while the label features the Komoro Violet.
The qualities traditionally associated with the violet, humility and sincerity, closely reflect our approach to whisky-making. By continually refining inherited techniques, learning from nature and approaching every stage of production with care and integrity, we strive to honour both tradition and innovation.
The design reflects the values of humility and sincerity that continue to guide the distillery’s approach to whisky-making.

KOMORO ORIGIN: Expressing the Distinctive Character of Komoro
KOMORO ORIGIN expresses the distinctive character of Komoro through its layered aromas, elegant complexity and harmonious palate.
It has been created for both experienced whisky enthusiasts and those discovering whisky for the first time. As the first expression in our core range, it serves as an introduction to the unique character of Komoro and the philosophy that underpins our whisky-making.

The Foundations of Komoro Craftsmanship
At Komoro Distillery, our ambition is to create whiskies that bring together fruit character, oak influence and texture in harmonious balance. Depth, complexity and structure are supported by four fundamental pillars:

• Craftsmanship inspired by the philosophy and techniques inherited from the late Dr Jim Swan
• A deep understanding of nature, drawing upon the climate and underground water sources of the Mount Asama region
• Dedication to casks and maturation, carefully evaluating the individuality of more than twenty different cask types
• A distinctly Japanese sense of aesthetics, which informs our approach to blending

Led by Ian Chang, our production team continues to pursue whiskies that express a character found nowhere else but Komoro.

KOMORO ORIGIN: The Beginning of Our Whisky Journey
KOMORO ORIGIN marks the first expression in what will become Komoro Distillery’s core whisky series.
Guided by a shared philosophy of whisky-making, future releases will continue to explore different facets of Komoro’s identity and character.
We look forward to sharing the first step of this journey with whisky lovers from around the world.

First Release Week: Celebrating the Birth of KOMORO ORIGIN in Komoro
From 7 to 15 November, Komoro Distillery will host First Release Week, a special celebration marking the launch of KOMORO ORIGIN.
During this limited period, the distillery will be transformed with special installations and experiences designed to immerse guests in the flavours, craftsmanship and stories behind the whisky.

Special Programme Highlights

• Masterclasses & Tasting Sessions

In addition to masterclasses led by Ian Chang, two special sessions will be presented by Chief Educator Eddie Ludlow, who will be visiting Japan for this occasion. Guests can explore the fundamentals of whisky appreciation in Whisky Basics, as well as discover the appeal of sherry cask maturation and the distinctive approach of KOMORO in Sherry 2. All sessions will be conducted in English with Japanese interpretation provided.

• A Special Pairing Experience Developed with Akafuku

The 1st Release Experience includes a special red-and-white daifuku pairing jointly developed by Komoro Distillery and Isuzu Chaya, the confectionery brand operated by the renowned Japanese confectioner Akafuku.
Created using Komoro Distillery spirit and Shinshu apples, these specially crafted sweets have been designed to complement the character of KOMORO ORIGIN.

The 1st Release Experience includes:

• A special pairing of KOMORO ORIGIN and commemorative red-and-white daifuku
• A warehouse tour created exclusively for First Release Week
• A commemorative pin badge made using cask wood from Komoro Distillery
• A shuttle bus ticket (Included with all advance purchase tickets)
• The opportunity to purchase a 200ml bottle of KOMORO ORIGIN (bottle sold separately)

Price Advance booking: JPY 3,850 (incl. tax) On the day: JPY 4,400 (incl. tax)

Reservations will close once capacity has been reached. On 15 November, the programme will operate during the morning only.
The festivities will also include a Celebration Lunch experience pairing food and whisky, alongside new commemorative products available at the distillery shop for the First Release.

Bottle Purchases Require an Eligible Programme Ticket
During First Release Week, KOMORO ORIGIN will be available for purchase exclusively to guests participating in eligible programmes.
Please select a programme according to the experience you would like to attend and the bottle size you wish to purchase. Bottles will not be available for purchase through distillery admission alone.
For tickets that include bottle purchase privileges, the bottle price is not included and must be paid separately.

Bottle Eligibility by Programme

• Includes a 700ml bottle: 1st Release Signature Package
• Includes the opportunity to purchase a 700ml bottle: All seminar tickets (Ian Chang 1 / Ian Chang 2 / Whisky Basics with Eddie Ludlow / Sherry × Eddie Ludlow) and the Celebration Lunch Experience
• Includes the opportunity to purchase a 200ml bottle: 1st Release Experience

No general retail release through other retailers is currently planned for this initial allocation.
Guests are encouraged to visit the official First Release Week website for full programme details and reservations.

Discover Komoro at the Height of Autumn
A special hop-on, hop-off shuttle bus service is planned throughout the event period for a flat fare of JPY 500.
During this season, autumn colours reach their peak across Komoro. Visitors can enjoy the annual Autumn Leaves Festival at Komoro Castle Ruins (Kaiko-en Garden), explore the historic townscape and experience the region’s seasonal cuisine.
To help visitors make the most of their stay, additional information regarding shuttle services and regional collaboration initiatives will be released through the official First Release Week website.

Event Information
Event Name Komoro Distillery First Release Week
Dates 7-15 November 2026
Venue Komoro Distillery and participating locations throughout Komoro
Further Information and Reservations Official Komoro Distillery First Release Week Website

We look forward to welcoming visitors to Komoro during First Release Week and sharing the launch of KOMORO ORIGIN.

 

Further Information

First Release Week Website
https://komoro-first-release.com/