LOUISVILLE, KY – June 5, 2025 – Mugen Spirit has announced the release of the second hazmat-proof barrel in its limited Yokai Series, set to go live on Friday, June 13. Early access will be available to mugenspirit.com newsletter subscribers earlier that week.
The bottle series draws inspiration from Yokai, which are supernatural beings rooted in Japanese folklore. Each release explores a different creature, beginning with the Tengu, an avian-like spirit that protects the mountaintops of Japan with a sword and war fan.
This second barrel follows the debut release, which was named Best New Bourbon in May by Uproxx. In a recent review, Uproxx whiskey writer Frank Dobbins III said, “While Mugen Spirit might be new on the whiskey scene, with a thoughtful launch like this, it’s clear that they’ve got the chops to make some waves this year, and potentially even in the long term. Seek them out immediately.”
The new release is bottled at 141.8 proof and continues Mugen Spirit’s focus on bold, high-character expressions. The Tengu Series label features original, hand-drawn artwork of the Tengu by acclaimed Japanese illustrator Yuko Shimizu.
“The Yokai Series allows us to blend storytelling with serious whiskey,” said founder Kojin Tashiro. “Each barrel brings a different character to life, both in the bottle and on the label.”
While the full release schedule has not been made public, additional barrels in the Yokai Series are expected throughout the summer.
For more information or to join the mailing list, visit mugenspirit.com. Podcast, interview, and tasting opportunities with Mugen Spirit Co-Founder Kojin Tashiro are available upon request.
