Chivas Brothers, the Scotch whisky arm of Pernod Ricard, has collaborated with sake brewery Masuizumi on a new spirit.

Actor Cate Blanchett has joined Toku Saké as creative director where she will direct the strategy of the brand, including new product development and innovation.

Artesian bar at The Langham, London, has launched a food and cocktail pairing experience, with dishes from chef Angelo Sato of Humble Chicken matched with cocktails by head bartender of Artesian, Giulia Cuccurullo.

Iichiko shochu has signed an importer agreement with Shaw-Ross International Importers to expand its availability across the US.

Japanese spirits brand Ukiyo has launched its Blossom Gin, Yuzu Gin, and Rice Vodka in New Zealand after agreeing a distribution deal.

Japanese whisky continues to go from strength to strength as shochu producers turn to the category to make their mark in international markets.

Shochu can now be sold under its own category name in the state of New York, US, after amendments to the Beverage Control Act allowing Japanese Shochu (24% ABV or under) to be sold under a beer and wine license.

Scotch whisky brand Dewar’s has announced the latest release in the brand’s Cask Series, Japanese Smooth, an 8-year-old blended Scotch finished in Japanese Mizunara oak casks.

Kirker Greer Spirits has launched a new Japanese spirits brand called Ukiyo which features two gins and a rice vodka coming soon.

Plans to protect the reputation of Japanese whisky have been unveiled, but do they go far enough? Shay Waterworth looks at the implications.

The Japan Spirits and Liqueurs Makers Association has announced a new set of rules and regulations for the production of Japanese whisky.

Marussia Beverages has bolstered its spirits portfolio by taking on two Japanese whiskies from Hatozaki.

Tennis superstar Naomi Osaka has been appointed as creative director for SOTO after investing in the premium sake brand.

English sparkling wine producer Black Chalk has announced plans to set up an office in Tokyo as it bids to crack the Japanese market.

Number One Drinks Company has bottled a limited edition 1964 Japanese whisky exclusively for Poland.

The first whisky from Japanese craft distillery Chichibu has been launched. Chichibu The First is three years old, 61.8% abv and limited to 7,400 bottles. The whisky is not chill-filtered.

Indian distributor Radico Khaitan is to launch Japanese whiskies the Yamazaki 12 year old and Hibiki 17 year old in India.

Estonian alcohol producer AS Liviko has acquired 50% of a Japanese alcohol import and distribution company.