Shojo Throwing a Nikka Whiskey Bash

Photo by Chelsea Kyle

Whiskey critic Jim Murray raised some eyebrows this week when he ranked a Japanese single malt over all of Scotland’s best. In his annual Whiskey Bible, a guide to more than 4,500 whiskeys, Murray awarded Suntory’s Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask as his “World Whiskey of the Year.”

That should come as no surprise to anyone who is a fan of brown liquors. Japanese whiskey is undoubtedly the darling of the spirits world right now thanks to pot-distilled versions from Suntory brands Yamazaki, Hukushu, and Hibiki, as well as its main competitor, Nikka Distillery.

Nikka, which turns 80 this year, has decided to celebrate its anniversary with Shōjō Asian Bar & Bistro next week. The party will free samples of Nikka’s Miyagikyo Single Malt 12-year whisky, a new, complimentary Shōjō cocktail (made with Nikka Coffey Grain, Fernet Branca, and Barolo Chinato), as well as free snacks from the kitchen. Chef Mark O’Leary will be preparing cool Togarashi shojitos, Peking duck rolling bites, “Turnt Up” popcorn, and pork and mushroom eggrolls to complement all the whiskey.

To RSVP, just like Shojo’s Facebook page and join the Facebook event.

Nov. 10, 8 p.m.-midnight, 9A Tyler St., Boston; 617-423-7800 or shojoboston.com.