Meet Distiller Teru

Originally from Japan and now proudly living in Corowa, Teru is passionate about making great whisky, never short of a laugh and very committed to “quality control.”

We pulled him away from the stills for five quick questions.

You moved from Japan to Corowa, what brought you here and what made you stay?

In 2023, I visited Corowa through the sister city exchange program between Miki City and Corowa. I fell in love with the town, its beautiful surroundings, and the warmth of the people. Also… I wanted to marry the chicken Parmi.

What’s your favourite thing about living in Corowa?

This might sound a little strange, but my favourite time is when I’m at work. Giving each day my full attention and imagining people enjoying the whisky we make years from now is what excites me. It feels like I’m creating a time capsule.

What’s something about you that might surprise Corowa whisky drinkers?

They might be surprised by how much whisky I’m willing to taste for “quality control”. I take this responsibility very seriously.

How do you like to drink your whisky?

When I drink whisky, I always think about pairing it with food. My favourite way is to enjoy a salty steak with a sweet, smoky, high-proof whisky served neat. After the meal, I like to add a single drop of water and take my time, appreciating how the whisky opens up.

If you could recommend one Corowa whisky, which would you choose and why?

My top recommendation is Corowa Characters. It was the very first whisky I ever drank. It has notes of ripe grapes and caramel sweetness, but more than just the flavour, Character reminds me of Corowa’s beautiful landscape and the spirit of this place. Its bold character captures the strength of the Australian landscape, and that’s what I love most about it.

…And the fact that it’s the cheapest one is pretty bloody good too.