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Kamiki Drinks: Japanese spirits with cult status

Kamiki Drinks is a multinational company with its headquarters in Amsterdam which markets top spirits from Japan. Gin comes from the Kishi Kumano Distillery in Wakayama. The company is part of the leading manufacturer of alcoholic drinks, Plum Food Co., which can already look back on more than 50 years of experience.

The finest spring water is used for the Sakaki Craft Gin range from a region which is known as the land of the Gods. The evergreen Sakaki tree is known in Japan as a holy plant and is used in religious ceremonies. As a world first it has now also been selected as a botanical for a gin, and this is where the name comes from. As well as Sakaki, juniper berries, coriander seeds, caraway, star anise, pimento, cloves, cinnamon, lemon peel, pepper, lavender, bay leaves, wasabi, ginger and others are also used.

One other spirit rarity that has made its way to Europe via the distributor Yoshino Spirits in Osaka is Umiki Whisky. Inspired by Japan’s respect for nature and the ocean as the source of life, local malt whiskies were blended with grain whiskies from around the world, before being mixed with filtered seawater and refined in Japanese pine barrels – in Japan, the pine tree is a symbol of life.

At the World Spirits Award, there was gold for Umiki Ocean Fused Whisky, and silver for Sakaki Gin.

Emil Scheibel Schwarzwald-Brennerei: With hydropower to whisky

Michael Scheibel has breathed new life into the disused Scheibel mill in Kappelrodeck. Single malt whisky has been produced here since 2014; the first batch came on the market in 2018 after more than three years’ storage. The listed building has been lovingly restored while historical details were preserved. A turbine from 1954 provides power, and any surplus goes directly into the distillery and the public network. “Grain still plays a central role here, but now in liquid form,” says the company boss.

The hand-hammered copper stills with the typical swan’s neck were especially designed for the distillery and guarantee consistent quality. “They catch the eye from the visitors’ room,” says chief distiller Frank Blechschmidt. The whisky benefits from the architecture of the mill when maturing as it is stored on four levels with different temperature and climate zones. The Acher River under the mill provides coolness and humidity. “In summer, temperatures reach 45 degrees under the roof, in winter it’s common to see temperatures of minus 10,” says Michael Scheibel. “This ensures movement in the barrel and creates the heartbeat of our single malt whisky.”

Under the brand names EMILL Stockwerk, with 46 per cent alcohol by volume, and EMILL Kraftwerk, at cask strength with 58.7 per cent alcohol by volume, there are currently two products available at the mill and online.

At the World Spirits Award, there was gold for Emill Single Malt Whisky Stockwerk and Emill Single Malt Whisky Kraftwerk.

Clint Wilfred & Sons – Good taste for rapidly expanding markets

Clint Wilfred & Sons Ltd brings a carefully selected portfolio of drinks to the Gulf region and Southeast Asia. The young company targets fast-moving products in the HORECA – Hotel/Restaurant/Café and Hotel/Restaurant/Catering market segment. It is run by Clint Wilfred, whose family has been in the spirit production and distribution business for over four decades.

One main focus of business activities lies in the United Arab Emirates. To offer new products on this rapidly growing market is a great challenge, as the demand for premium and niche products is constantly increasing and customers’ wishes are very diverse. The range, therefore, also includes non-alcoholic and carbonated soft drinks, still and sparkling water, ready-to-drink teas, energy sport drinks and other New Age drinks. There is also a strong focus on a wide selection of packaging sizes and formats.

One special product in the spirits product category is Count Cristo Blended Scotch Whisky, a premium blend with a high malt content from the Scottish Speyside region and with some lowland malt for added depth and character.

At the World Spirits Award, there was gold for Count Cristo Blended Scotch Whisky.