Sato Shochu Works (Chihaya)

Century-old shochu maker (founded 1905) that entered the Japanese whisky scene with Chihaya — meaning 'a thousand breezes' or 'swift wind'. First whisky reached three-year maturity in July 2025, aged in American white oak barrels. Launched via lottery through Kurand sake retailer, April 2025. Known as Japan's first chestnut shochu producer. Uses deep underground water from the legendary Houri River system. Part of the Miyazaki Prefecture's growing whisky cluster alongside Osuzuyama and Sakuranosato, representing the shochu belt's transformation into a multi-spirit production region.

Production Details