Keisuke Itagaki's iconic Japanese manga series, "Baki," has been tearing up the pages since its debut in 1991. With various installments released over the years, the saga continues with "Baki Gaiden: Yuenchi," boasting over 100 million copies sold worldwide.
Now, the series is dropping a killer collaboration with "WHISKY MEW," the liquor brand from Shogakukan's "Otona no Ittoku" (Adult's Masterpiece) line! This limited-edition whisky features fan-favorite character "Retsu Kaioh" on its label. Priced at 33,000 JPY, this exclusive release is limited to just 297 bottles and will be sold via a lottery system. Applications for the lottery open on the official website starting May 28, 2026.
Shogakukan's "Otona no Ittoku" brand, "WHISKY MEW," is renowned in Japan for offering whiskies personally tasted and recommended by whisky collector Hideo Yamaoka. They've previously teamed up with major IPs like Ghost in the Shell and Neon Genesis Evangelion for special edition releases.
This time, for the "Baki" series' 35th anniversary, the spotlight shines on the master of Chinese martial arts and incredibly popular character, "Retsu Kaioh."
The chosen dram is "Secret Islay 2009"—and get this, this very whisky actually made an appearance in the "Baki" manga! Retsu Kaioh was seen enjoying it at a bar with British inmate Beta Durr, who, being from Scotland, even remarked, "This is whisky from my homeland," adding, "It's a very distinctive Scotch whisky, but you get addicted to it once you start drinking it."
While the official distillery name remains a secret, rumor has it that this particular distillery is famous for its incredibly high peat levels, earning it the nickname "Islay's craziest distillery."
The "Secret Islay 2009" is defined by its intensely rich peaty and smoky aroma. Its overall flavor profile leans heavily into peat with a strong spicy kick, leaving a lingering smoky finish that goes on and on. Truly a peat head's paradise!
"Baki" Retsu Kaioh Label Secret Islay 2009
Price: 33,000 JPY
Volume: 700ml
Aged: 15 years
Alcohol Content: 51.5%
Origin: Scotland
via： WHISKY MEW