A groundbreaking whisky that overturns the common belief that “whisky equals barley” has been born in Shonan. Its name: Shonan Harumi Rice Whisky.

This innovative bottle blends the sweetness of Japanese rice with Shonan’s refreshing character, bringing to life a new challenge—“Japanese rice × whisky”—that has finally taken shape.

Overview of Shonan Harumi Rice Whisky

🌾 About the Kanagawa Brand Rice “Harumi”

The star ingredient of Shonan Harumi Rice Whisky is Kanagawa’s proud local rice, Harumi.

❇️ Born from 19 Years of Research

Harumi is a rice variety optimized for Kanagawa’s climate and soil. Remarkably, it took 19 years to develop.

❇️ Origin of the Name

Named after “the sunny sea of Shonan (haru-umi)”, Harumi has become a symbolic brand rice of the region.

❇️ Flavor Characteristics

・Strong natural sweetness
・Soft, plump grains
・Clear, glossy appearance

Loved as a table rice, its inherent sweetness adds depth to the whisky’s flavor profile.

🥃 An Innovative Process Using Germinated Brown Rice by Kumesen Distillery

Unlike typical whisky—which uses malted barley—Shonan Harumi Rice Whisky follows a different path.

➤ Germinated Brown Rice Instead of Malt

This choice enhances:

・The natural sweetness of rice
・A gentle, softened aroma
・A smooth, clean finish
・A comfortable drinkability without fatigue

It truly evolves into a whisky tailored to the Japanese palate.

➤ A Cultural Fusion of Okinawa and Shonan

Production is handled by Okinawa’s long-established Kumesen Distillery, whose expertise in Awamori fermentation techniques maximizes the character of the rice.

🥃 Recommended Ways to Enjoy

✨ Tasting Review

🌸 Aroma

・A soft, sweet rice-derived fragrance rises gently—balanced and not overpowering.

🍯 Palate

・Sweetness spreads across the tongue, complemented by a pleasant touch of alcohol.
・Despite its 47% ABV, it offers a rounded, mellow character with minimal harshness.

🪵 Finish

・Calm and pleasant, with a clean finish that fades smoothly.
・Its subtle aftertaste is appealing, never interfering with the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine.

🍽 Why It Pairs Exceptionally Well with Food

Many whiskies are too assertive and clash with delicate dishes.
Rice whisky, however, is in a class of its own.

🌟 Best Pairings
・Sashimi & sushi (especially white fish)
・Salt-grilled chicken
・Dashi-based dishes (oden, chawanmushi)
・Grilled seafood

A whisky that functions as a mealtime companion is extremely rare—and one of this bottle’s biggest strengths.

🎁 Why It Makes a Great Gift

・A unique story tied to the Shonan region
・100% Japanese rice rarity
・Premium 47% ABV specification
・Pairs naturally with Japanese cuisine
・200mL mini bottles perfect for gifting

A highly appealing choice for anyone looking for a memorable present.

Product Information

・Product Name: Shonan Harumi Rice Whisky
・Release Date: November 27, 2025
・Sizes: 700mL / 200mL
・ABV: 47%
・Price: 700mL – 12,000 yen (tax included)
・Sales: JA Town exclusive (JA Zen-Noh Kanagawa Shop)
・Note: Must be 20+ to purchase

Where to Buy

・JA Town: https://www.ja-town.com/shop/g/g3601-sk-al-0001/
・Kumesen Distillery Online Shop: https://bit.ly/44uYnBm
・Kumesen Distillery Rakuten Store: https://a.r10.to/h8sjpK
・Kumesen Distillery Yahoo! Shopping: https://bit.ly/3KhY3Px
・JA direct sales shops in Kanagawa Prefecture
・Okinawa stores (except OKINAWA BLUE Makishi): Naha Airport, Heiwa-dori, Ichiba Hondori, plus Shimbashi store (outside Okinawa)

※Stock may fluctuate.
※Early purchase is recommended.

Summary

Shonan Harumi Rice Whisky embodies a fusion of Kanagawa’s rice × Okinawan craftsmanship × Japanese craft spirit.

Its unique sweetness, smooth drinkability, and the story of Shonan behind it elevate this whisky beyond a simple drink—
it becomes “a bottle that lets you taste the scenery of Shonan.”

Be sure to check out one of the most talked-about Japanese craft whiskies of the year.

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How was it?

This article introduced the latest information on the launch of “Shonan Harumi Rice Whisky,” a craft whisky born in Shonan.

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▼Check out the Japanese version of this article here!
＞＞湘南発！開発に19年を費やした米100％「湘南はるみライスウイスキー」が発売！

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