Karuizawa Distillers has announced plans to build a new distillery for producing single malt Japanese whisky.
The new Furaliss distillery will be based in Furano, a city on one of Japan’s northern main islands Hokkaido.
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Due to open in 2028, Karuizawa will build the distillery in “partnership” with local conglomerate Seibu Group and the city of Furano, an official joint statement read.
Commenting on the location of the distillery, the statement said Karyizawa was “inspired by these ideal conditions for whisky-making”.
Karuizawa told Just Drinks the Furaliss site is expected to sit across six acres of land and is expected to create 80 full-time jobs once fully operational.
Distilling will commence at the site once it opens, with the first products under the Furaliss brand name expected to be available from 2031.
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By GlobalDataWith Seibu Group having opened a number of hotels and ski resorts in the area, Karuizawa said: “The new distillery will build on these offerings to further enhance the area’s appeal, aiming to create a destination that attracts both domestic and international visitors.”
The move follows the group’s opening of its first distillery, Komoro, in early 2023, located around the foothills of the Mount Asama volcano. Its first batches of whisky are expected to available from this location by 2026.
Speaking on the Furaliss location, Koji Shimaoka, CEO at Karuizawa Distillers said: “At our new distillery, we are committed to making the most of the region’s natural blessings and cultural richness, while pursuing excellence in both whisky-making and the guest experience.”
Whisky distillation at the site will be lead by Ian Chang. “My goal is not simply to create a place for whisky production, but to build a symbol of growth, rooted in the land of Furano,” he said.
“With deep respect for nature, I hope to offer both world-class whisky and unforgettable experiences here.”
As well as holding a whisky production site, the Furaliss distillery will put on tours, educational programmes and also feature a bar and shop for visitors.
