Honkaku Shochu “Yakushima Daishizenrin Mugi,” crafted by Hombo Shuzo Co., Ltd., was awarded the prestigious “TROPHY,” the highest accolade in the Shochu Category, at the International Spirits Challenge (ISC) 2026 awards ceremony held in London, UK, on Oct. 6, 2026 (Tue). This marks the eighth time Hombo Shuzo has received the top category trophy, and the fourth consecutive year of victory for “Yakushima Daishizenrin Mugi,” following its wins in 2023, 2024, and 2025.

We are deeply honored and proud that our Honkaku Shochu, “Yakushima Daishizenrin Mugi,” has been awarded the category’s highest honor, the “TROPHY,” for the fourth consecutive year at the prestigious International Spirits Challenge. Rooted in the lush nature of Yakushima—a UNESCO World Natural Heritage island—our Yakushima Denshogura distillery is profoundly grateful for this continued global recognition. We will continue to hone our craft and elevate our quality to meet and exceed every expectation.

International Spirits Challenge 2026 Shochu Category

TROPHY & DOUBLE GOLD

ISC (International Spirits Challenge)

Celebrating its 31st edition this year, the International Spirits Challenge (ISC) is an international competition assessing quality and taste across global spirits, hosted by the UK-based drinks publishing group Drinks International. Competing across multiple categories, including shochu, gin, vodka, and tequila, it is recognized worldwide as one of the industry’s most authoritative competitions. Judged through blind tastings conducted by leading spirits industry specialists, entries are evaluated by category to receive Gold, Silver, or Bronze medals. Furthermore, the Double Gold is awarded to standout selections among Gold medal recipients, and the premier “Trophy” is bestowed upon the pinnacle of each category—representing the highest distinction a product can achieve.

International Spirits Challenge Official Website