History

Origin

Niigata Kameda Distillery was established in March 2019 as part of Otani Group's expansion and began as Niigata Micro Distillery G.K., where a warehouse for seals was converted into a distillery. The first malt whisky distillation took place in February 2021. The distillery is located in Niigata and combines expertise in sake and whisky, with the aim of producing a light, ester-rich and clean whisky that reflects Niigata's sake-brewing traditions. The facility uses Forsyth's pot stills and a Ziemann mash tun, as well as washbacks made of acacia wood and stainless steel. The fermentation period can be long, typically between 96 and 120 hours, allowing time for the development of complex aroma compounds and a longer finish. Niigata Kameda Distillery also has a whisky cask ownership program and focuses on sustainability and local agriculture.

Awards and Recognitions

The distillery has received international recognition for its latest products: Gold for Niigata Kameda Newpot Peated in the New Make & Young Spirit category at the World Whiskies Awards 2023, Bronze in 2022 for New Pot Niigata Barley in the same category, and World’s Best New Make & Young Spirit for Newpot Peated at the World Whiskies Awards 2023. Additionally, the production is described as a combination of sake and whisky production, where local grains and water quality from Niigata play a significant role.

Production and Flavor Profile

Niigata Kameda uses a 400 kg malt batch, Forsyth's pot stills and a Ziemann mash tun. Washbacks are made of both acacia wood and stainless steel. The distillery aims for a light, ester-rich and clean whisky profile that reflects the region's sake culture and local ingredients. The aromas are described as floral and approachable, with malted and honey-like undertones and small spicy layers such as cinnamon and nutmeg, ending with a light oak note and light nutty-like finishes.

Products and Whisky Series

• Niigata Kameda Newpot Peated (New Make & Young Spirit) – Gold at the World Whiskies Awards 2023
• New Pot Niigata Barley (New Make & Young Spirit) – Bronze at the World Whiskies Awards 2022
• Newpot Peated – widely recognized as the World's Best New Make & Young Spirit at the World Whiskies Awards 2023

Sake and Whisky Interplay

The distillery highlights a close link between sake and whisky production and emphasizes the use of local water and locally sourced building materials. The fermentation duration ranges from 96 to 120 hours, yielding more complex alcohols and a longer finish in the final spirit. The long fermentation and use of local building materials allow the distillery to emphasize Niigata's terroir in whisky production.

Visits and Experiences

The text does not mention specific tours or visiting experiences for Niigata Kameda, but highlights a cask ownership program and sustainability initiatives associated with the production.

Philosophy

Niigata Kameda Distillery emphasizes sustainability, the use of local ingredients, and an integrated approach between sake and whisky as part of its identity. The distillery also highlights the role of climatic conditions and local raw materials as key elements in shaping the spirit's character and terroir.

Company Status

Active distillery with its first malt distillation in 2021 and ongoing production.