L’Arc-en-Ciel is a legendary, representative Japanese rock band. As a special project to celebrate their 35th anniversary, commemorative whiskies have been released in collaboration with Nagahama Distillery, the smallest distillery in Japan, located in Shiga Prefecture.
Starting from 10:00 AM on April 2, 2026, pre-orders have begun at “Lawson” konbini (convenience stores) across Japan via the Loppi multi-media terminals, as well as on the HMV&BOOKS online store and select HMV retail locations.
The lineup features two varieties: “LEGACY BLEND,” which expresses the history of the band’s evolution through 12 different types of raw spirits, and “RAINBOW NOTES,” which utilizes a unique “Music Maturation” process where the whisky is aged while listening to the band’s music. These are must-have items for fans, allowing them to experience the unique presence of L’Arc-en-Ciel with all five senses.
“LEGACY BLEND”: A Distillation of Evolutionary History Woven by 12 Albums
“L’Arc-en-Ciel 35th L’Anniversary Whisky ‘LEGACY BLEND'” is a blended malt whisky created by blending 12 different malt whiskies, each representing one of the 12 original albums they have released to date.
From their formation to the present, their journey at the forefront of the Japanese music scene has been a series of challenges and evolutions. Those many layers of history are expressed through a complex and deep flavor profile. This is more than just a souvenir; it is a high-quality whisky designed for a profound and lingering finish.
Product details are as follows:
- Product Name: L’Arc-en-Ciel 35th L’Anniversary Whisky “LEGACY BLEND”
- Category: Whisky
- Alcohol Content: 47% ABV
- Volume: 700ml (approx. 23.7 fl oz)
- Ingredients: Malt
- Type: Blended Malt Whisky
- Country of Origin: Japan
- Retail Price (Shipping Included): 11,770 yen (approx. $78.00 USD) (tax included)
“RAINBOW NOTES”: A Melody Played by 7 Malts and “Music Maturation”
The other product, “L’Arc-en-Ciel 35th L’Anniversary Whisky ‘RAINBOW NOTES’,” is a blended whisky themed after the band’s name (which means “Rainbow” in French). It uses seven carefully selected spirits to express a multi-faceted charm like a rainbow.
The most distinctive feature of this whisky is the romantic “Music Maturation” process. By playing the audio of the 12 original albums directly to the barrels, the minute vibrations influence the aging process, resulting in a smooth mouthfeel and a well-harmonized flavor. When served as a “Highball” mixed with soda, you can enjoy a more refreshing and brilliant aftertaste.
Product details are as follows:
- Product Name: L’Arc-en-Ciel 35th L’Anniversary Whisky “RAINBOW NOTES”
- Category: Whisky
- Alcohol Content: 47% ABV
- Volume: 700ml (approx. 23.7 fl oz)
- Ingredients: Malt, Grain
- Type: Blended Whisky
- Country of Origin: Japan
- Retail Price (Shipping Included): 11,770 yen (approx. $78.00 USD) (tax included)
Celebrating 35 Years! A Joyful Fusion of Music and Whisky
Nagahama Distillery is a whisky distillery that combines tradition and passion, located on the shores of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake. Despite its small scale, it is world-renowned for its meticulous whisky-making process.
How the skilled craftsmen interpreted the individuality of each of the 12 albums and which spirits they selected, and how the energy of the music dissolved into the liquid through “Music Maturation,” makes this an incredibly fascinating project for whisky enthusiasts as well.
A 2-bottle set is also available, priced slightly lower than purchasing them individually.
- 2-Bottle Set Price (Shipping Included): 22,880 yen (approx. $152.00 USD) (tax included)
Check the Pre-order Period and Purchase Method! Prepare for a Limited Quantity Race
These commemorative whiskies are sold for a limited time and in limited quantities. Even during the pre-order period, sales may end once the stock is depleted, so we recommend ordering early.
Pre-order Period
- April 2, 2026 (Thu) 10:00 AM – April 30, 2026 (Thu) 11:59 PM (JST)
Pre-order Procedure at Lawson Stores via “Loppi”
You can easily pre-order via the “Loppi” multi-media terminals located in Lawson stores across Japan.
- Select “If you have a various numbers (各種番号をお持ちの方)” on the Loppi home screen.
- Enter the “Loppi Dedicated Number” for the desired product:
- LEGACY BLEND (Single): 086113
- RAINBOW NOTES (Single): 091394
- 2-Bottle Set: 097147
- Follow the on-screen instructions to issue an application ticket.
- Pay the fee at the cash register within 30 minutes.
- The product will be delivered directly to your specified address after the release date.
Web Pre-order Method
Pre-orders are also accepted at the online store “HMV&BOOKS online” and select HMV retail stores. This is convenient for those who wish to order from home or use a credit card for payment.
L’Arc-en-Ciel × Nagahama Distillery 35th L’Anniversary Whisky Now Available! | HMV&BOOKS online 🇯🇵
The history of L’Arc-en-Ciel has been built over 35 long years. Looking back on that journey with the highest quality whisky will surely be an irreplaceable and luxurious moment for fans. What kind of melody will you feel within the amber-glowing liquid?
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