whisky shop in Nagoya

If you are looking for stores selling Japanese whiskey in Nagoya, it is available at JOYLAB Nagoya store.

Please inquire in advance about availability before coming to the store if you want to make sure of these.

There is translation tool available at the store, so don’t worry if you don’t speak Japanese.

We look forward to seeing you at our stores.

JOYLAB Nagoya store

Access Map

Five types of alcohol that you should try in Nagoya

Here are five types of alcohol that you should try when drinking in Nagoya.

1. Nagoya’s Local Sake

Sake, Japan’s famed rice wine, holds a special place in Nagoya’s culinary scene. The region around Nagoya is known for producing high-quality rice and pure water, essential ingredients for premium sake. One must-try is the sake from Morita Kinshachi Brewery, which blends traditional brewing methods with modern techniques to create distinctive flavors. Their “Kinshachi” label, named after the golden dolphins adorning Nagoya Castle, offers a range of sake from dry to sweet, appealing to both sake connoisseurs and novices. Visiting a local izakaya or sake bar to sample these refined brews is an excellent way to experience Nagoya’s rich sake culture.

2. Miso Kudasai

A unique Nagoya specialty, “Miso Kudasai,” is a cocktail that ingeniously incorporates the city’s beloved Hatcho miso. This savory drink mixes miso with vodka, tomato juice, and a dash of lemon, creating a surprisingly refreshing cocktail with a rich umami depth. Though it might sound unconventional, Miso Kudasai is a testament to Nagoya’s culinary innovation, marrying traditional flavors with contemporary mixology. Bars in Nagoya, especially those specializing in local cuisine, often feature this cocktail, offering a taste experience that’s both novel and deeply rooted in the region’s gastronomic heritage.

3. Umeshu from Nagoya

Umeshu, a sweet plum liqueur, is beloved throughout Japan, but Nagoya’s version stands out for its craftsmanship and quality. Local producers often use plums from the surrounding regions, known for their juiciness and flavor, combined with fine spirits to create umeshu that balances sweetness and acidity perfectly. Enjoying a glass of chilled umeshu at a local bar or restaurant is a delightful way to unwind, with its fruity aroma and smooth taste encapsulating the essence of Nagoya’s fruit-producing heritage.

4. Craft Beer from Kinshachi Beer

Nagoya’s craft beer scene is on the rise, with Kinshachi Beer leading the charge. This brewery is known for its “Nagoya Red Miso Lager,” a unique brew that incorporates the region’s famous red miso, offering a rich, complex flavor profile that defies traditional beer expectations. Kinshachi Beer’s lineup also includes a range of other styles, from crisp pilsners to aromatic IPAs, showcasing the diversity and creativity of Nagoya’s craft beer artisans. Visiting their taproom or a local bar that stocks Kinshachi Beer is a must for beer enthusiasts looking to explore the innovative side of Japan’s brewing culture.

5. Japanese Whisky at The Bar Nagoya

While not produced in Nagoya itself, Japanese whisky has garnered international acclaim, and The Bar Nagoya offers an extensive selection of these sought-after spirits. This sophisticated bar provides a cozy atmosphere ideal for savoring a glass of fine Japanese whisky, from well-known distilleries like Yamazaki and Hakushu to smaller, artisanal producers. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the nuances of each whisky, making it an educational as well as enjoyable experience. For whisky aficionados, a visit to The Bar Nagoya is a chance to delve deep into the world of Japanese whisky, surrounded by the city’s unique charm.

These five drinks provide just a glimpse into Nagoya’s diverse drinking culture, from the traditional to the contemporary. Whether you’re sipping on locally brewed sake, exploring the unique flavors of a miso cocktail, enjoying the fruity sweetness of umeshu, discovering Nagoya’s craft beer scene, or appreciating the craftsmanship of Japanese whisky, Nagoya offers a rich tapestry of alcoholic experiences that reflect the city’s unique blend of tradition and innovation.