“Do you know the term ‘Angel’s Share’?”
As whisky matures in its cask, a small portion evaporates into the air. Distillers call this the “Angel’s Share,” a term filled with both affection and respect. However, during my visit to the Sakurao Distillery in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima, I couldn’t help but think: the angels here might be a little “greedy”.
When I was guided through the distillery’s exclusive no-photography areas, I felt it—the unique aging environment where the salty breeze from the Seto Inland Sea meets the cool, crisp air of the mountains. In that silent space, time was being carved into the barrels with a powerful intensity. The moment I caught the scent, the word “Hitsuzen” (Inevitability) resonated within me once more.
Whether it is the “Single Malt Sakurao,” the “Togouchi,” or the exquisite “Hiroshige Collection” featuring the art of Katsushika Hokusai, every single drop is infused with the wordless passion of the producers I met personally at the distillery.
“When you connect with the heart of the maker, the spirit becomes even more delicious.”
This is a truth I have come to believe through my travels to distilleries around the world. What kind of wind did the producers feel? With what intention did they select each cask? By sharing these stories as I serve you, the liquid in your glass transcends being a mere drink—it becomes an “unforgettable experience.”
In the heart of Hiroshima, tasting a whisky nurtured by Hiroshima’s own winds, accompanied by its unique story. Tonight, at the counter of Bar Little Happiness, won’t you join me in sharing the ultimate glass left behind by Sakurao’s “greedy angels”?
↓Deep Dive into the Story: For those who wish to explore the full, detailed history and my personal reflections on this distillery, please visit our original column here (Japanese): (You can use the language switcher at the top of our site to translate the page into your preferred language.)↓
出逢いは必然。Rum&Whiskyの世界へようこそ。 (An encounter is inevitable. Welcome to the world of Rum & Whisky.)
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• Multilingual Menu: Available in 8 languages
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• Cover Charge: No cover charge
• Atmosphere: Quiet / No smoking (Electronic cigarettes allowed) / Solo & Small groups welcome
Visit Us in Hiroshima
We welcome guests from all over the world with our 8-language menu and a massive collection of over 1,000 whiskies.
Explore our vast range of Japanese labels, featuring an unrivaled selection of local Hiroshima craft whiskies, alongside an extensive array of fine Scotches.
No matter where you are from, your “destined glass” is waiting.
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(Dive deep into the world of whisky and rum. This site can be translated into English or Korean using the language switcher tab at the top of the page.)
