Onikishi Japanese Whisky, recently crowned Japanese Blended Whisky of the Year at the New York International Spirits Competition, is making its debut in France through an exclusive distribution partnership with spirits specialist Maison Villevert.
This strategic collaboration combines Onikishi’s exceptional quality, anime-inspired design, and authentic Japanese craftsmanship with Maison Villevert’s extensive industry expertise and powerful premium distribution network. Known for creating Cîroc Vodka for Diageo and for building some of the world’s most successful spirit brands, Maison Villevert offers a platform to introduce Onikishi to whisky lovers, cocktail bars, and hospitality venues across France.
France is already the largest importer of Japanese whisky outside the United States, with IWSR reporting more than 160,000 9-litre cases sold in 2023. Demand is surging, particularly among younger consumers who value Japanese whisky’s smooth, delicate, and highly sessionable style. This aligns with a broader shift away from more traditional categories such as Scotch and Cognac toward innovative international whiskies.
“Launching Onikishi Whisky in France alongside Maison Villevert is monumental for us,” said Joe Milner, Managing Director of Milestone Beverages HK Ltd., brand owner of Onikishi. “France’s appreciation of craftsmanship, tradition, and food pairing mirrors Japan’s own cultural values—making it a perfect fit for Onikishi. The French premium spirits market is vibrant, and with Maison Villevert’s depth, discipline, and distribution power, we believe France could become our biggest market globally.”
Yannick Perezzan, Director of Commercial & Marketing at Maison Villevert, added, “The French have a deep respect for artisanal quality, and Japanese whisky fits beautifully into that cultural mindset. Onikishi not only delivers extraordinary quality, but also a striking visual identity that resonates strongly here, especially given the popularity of anime in France. We see significant opportunity to build the brand across both retail and on-premise channels.”
The partnership will see Onikishi first roll out to the country’s 5,000+ independent wine and spirits retailers (cavistes) —a highly professional and influential channel in France—before expanding into bars, restaurants, and cocktail venues, with a focus on the Japanese Highball serve, including Onikishi’s signature Yuzu Highball.
The Onikishi Range in France include Onikishi ‘Demon Knight’ Japanese Blended Whisky (43% ABV, 700ml) – approx. €49; Onikishi ‘Deadly Sakura’ Cherry Blossom Cask (43% ABV, 700ml) – approx. €70; and Onikishi ‘Tenbatsu’ 12-Year-Old Japanese Whisky (43% ABV, 700ml) – approx. €120.