～Both win the Category Winner for the second time～
松井酒造合名会社 (Location: Kurayoshi City, Tottori Prefecture) has announced that at the world-renowned whisky competition World Whiskies Awards 2026, held in the United Kingdom, two products — Matsui Pure Malt Whisky “Kurayoshi 12 Years” and “Kurayoshi 18 Years” — have won the Category Winner (Best in Class) and Gold awards.
This achievement goes beyond simply earning medals. Both “Kurayoshi 12 Years” and “Kurayoshi 18 Years” have now received the Category Winner title for the second time, following their victories in 2021.
Their consistently high quality, recognized even over time, has once again been proven on the world stage.
Standing shoulder to shoulder with many prestigious global brands in the birthplace of whisky, the United Kingdom, having a whisky born in Tottori acknowledged as a “world-class bottle” is our greatest honor and a true source of pride.
☆ Two-time Category Winners – “Kurayoshi 12 Years” and “Kurayoshi 18 Years,” continuously chosen by the world
The “World Whiskies Awards (WWA)” is one of the most prestigious whisky competitions in the industry, held annually in London, UK. Whiskies from around the world are evaluated through blind tastings, judged purely on aroma and flavor without brand identification.
Amid this rigorous evaluation, both “Kurayoshi 12 Years” and “Kurayoshi 18 Years” captured the Category Winner title twice — in 2021 and again in 2026.
This recognition proves they are not driven by trends or hype, but by authentic quality that endures over time.
☆ If you’re unsure, choose these two. The world-recognized, reliable whiskies
Matsui Pure Malt Whisky “Kurayoshi 12 Years”
Aged to develop depth and complexity, offering a well-balanced and mellow taste.
Smooth and approachable while retaining classic whisky character, making it perfect both as a “first bottle” and a “go-to favorite.”
Retail Price / ¥10,000 (tax excluded) ¥11,000 (tax included)
Volume / 700ml
ABV / 43%
Cask Type / White Oak
Ingredients / Malt
Matsui Pure Malt Whisky “Kurayoshi 18 Years”
Extended maturation creates richness, depth, and a long, lingering finish.
Its luxurious flavor is instantly recognizable from the first sip, making it ideal for special occasions or as a distinguished gift.
Recommended for those seeking a “one-rank-higher whisky experience.”
Retail Price / ¥25,000 (tax excluded) ¥27,500 (tax included)
Volume / 700ml
ABV / 43%
Cask Type / White Oak
Ingredients / Malt
Both bottles represent quality recognized worldwide.
If you’re unsure which to choose, you simply can’t go wrong with these two.
☆ Other Award-Winning Products
At WWA 2026, the following products were also recognized:
【Silver】
・Matsui Pure Malt Whisky “Kurayoshi Sherry Cask”
【Bronze】
・Matsui Whisky “Oyama Wine Cask”
・Matsui Pure Malt Whisky “Kurayoshi 8 Years”
A diverse lineup receiving international recognition is a testament to the brand’s overall excellence.
☆ Bringing World-Class Quality to Everyday Moments
Award-winning whisky often carries an image of being “luxury” or “for special occasions only.”
However, Matsui Whisky values being an authentic whisky that can also be enjoyed in everyday life.
Not only for celebrations, but also for a relaxing drink after work, a quiet weekend evening, or moments shared with loved ones.
We want more people to enjoy world-recognized flavors in their daily lives.
That is our mission.
■ Award Summary
★ Category Winner & Gold
・Matsui Pure Malt Whisky “Kurayoshi 12 Years”
・Matsui Pure Malt Whisky “Kurayoshi 18 Years”
(Both winning Category Winner for the second time since 2021)
★ Silver
・Matsui Pure Malt Whisky “Kurayoshi Sherry Cask”
★ Bronze
・Matsui Whisky “Oyama Wine Cask”
・Matsui Pure Malt Whisky “Kurayoshi 8 Years”
