Hakata Whisky, distilled and matured in Fukuoka, Japan, and hailing from the Hikari Distillery announced its U.S. debut.

Distilled from 100% barley and aged in sherry casks, the range includes Hakata 10-Year-Old Whisky, Hakata 12-Year-Old Whisky, Hakata 16-Year-Old Whisky and the showstopping Hakata 18-Year-Old Whisky.

Hakata Whisky is distilled and matured using 100% barley, a fraction of which is fermented with Koji – providing healthy enzymes for fermentation, and thus delivering a savory, unmistakable, Umami-enhanced patina. A distinguishing technique employed by the brand, this type of distillation is as revered as it is ancient and has been leveraged by some of the top distillers in Japan for nearly 500 years. Known as the source of Umami, Koji is also used for production of Soy Sauce, Sake, and Miso.

Created by the team at the Hikari Distillery, Hakata Whiskies are aged in sherry casks in both traditional and open-air warehouses, allowing the aged spirits to benefit from the unique environmental elements in the Fukuoka region. Exposure to a humid summertime climate and cold winter temperatures manifest whiskies that are bold and evolved, characterized by decadent, sherry-dominant flavor profiles. These distillation and production techniques combined render a valiant, almost classic whisky flavor profile, while retaining a coveted freshness that is truly rare.

Located on the southern island of Kyushu, the historic Hikari distillery has been producing spirits since 1912. Here is the current Hakata lineup:

• Hakata 18-Year-Old Whisky (SRP: $190)
• Hakata 16-Year-Old Whisky (SRP: $150)
• Hakata 12-Year-Old Whisky (SRP: $100)
• Hakata 10-Year-Old Whisky (SRP: $80)

“The domestic market for World whiskies is unprecedented right now, and we are excited to bring Hakata’s otherworldly flavor profile to an American audience,” said Chris Uhde, Vice President, ImpEx Beverages, in a news release, “especially as we know umami is finally having its moment in the sun. Whisky from Japan is a formidable and well-respected category in the overall whisky scene, and our hope is that Hakata finds its rightful seat at the table.”

For more information, visit www.hakatawhisky.com.