Hayashi KoYo Ryukyu Japanese Whisky
Hayashi KoYo Ryukyu Japanese Whisky is a non-age-stated single-grain Japanese whisky bottled at 43% ABV (86 proof) in a 700mL bottle — the signature expression of Hayashi's Okinawan range, made from 100% Japanese indica rice fermented with black koji in the 500-year-old awamori tradition. An award magnet — Gold at the SIP Awards 2024, the Asian Spirits Masters 2023, and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023, 92 points at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2023, and USA Spirit Ratings 2025 Spirit of the Year Japan — KoYo is tropical, savory, and unmistakably Ryukyuan. It is in stock and available to order online now at Del Mesa Liquor.
- Proof / ABV: 43% ABV / 86 proof
- Size: 700mL
- Age: no age statement — single-grain whisky
- Origin: Okinawa, Japan (Ryukyu Islands)
- Production: 100% Japanese indica rice, black koji fermentation; matured in barrels in Okinawa's island air; no caramel color added
The Award-Winning Face of Ryukyu Whisky
KoYo is the bottle that put Hayashi on the international map — a modern expression of an ancient spirit, as the importer puts it. Where the 8, 18, and 24 Year bottlings show what time does to Okinawan rice whisky, KoYo shows what the place does: indica rice and black koji matured amid the lush Okinawa air, accelerating and invigorating the spirit into something tropical, powerful, and entirely unlike Scotch or Kentucky. Compare it against its Hayashi siblings or browse more Japanese whisky at Del Mesa Liquor.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Sandalwood, orange blossom, and white flower with apple, butterscotch, and funky black koji.
Palate: Apricot, creamed caramel, and sourdough biscuit — powerful and tropical with a savory undercurrent.
Finish: Remarkably smooth and enduring, capturing the spirit of the Ryukyu Islands.
How to Enjoy
Neat or on the rocks to take in the full tropical profile — or try it as a highball, where soda water lifts the orange blossom and apricot into something bright and sessionable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hayashi KoYo made from?
100% Japanese indica rice fermented with black koji — the same rice-and-koji base as Okinawa's traditional awamori spirit.
What awards has Hayashi KoYo won?
Gold medals at the SIP Awards 2024, Asian Spirits Masters 2023, and SFWSC 2023; 92 points at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2023; and USA Spirit Ratings 2025 Spirit of the Year Japan and Japanese Whisky of the Year.
Does KoYo have an age statement?
No — it is a non-age-statement single-grain whisky; the age-stated Hayashi expressions are the 8, 18, and 24 Year.
Is caramel color added?
No — Hayashi adds no caramel coloring.
Ryukyu whisky at its most decorated — order Hayashi KoYo online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA, and taste what the judges tasted.