A conversation with Kavalan: Bringing Taiwan’s whiskey to the world stage

Since its founding in 2005 under Taiwan’s King Car Group, Kavalan Whiskey has established Yilan County as a center for single malt whiskey production. Drawing on the island’s subtropical climate and local water sources, the distillery has built a global presence through critically acclaimed whiskies and a growing travel retail footprint. Global Travel Retail Magazine recently spoke with Henman Li, Executive Senior Manager at Kavalan Whiskey, about the brand’s expansion, travel retail strategy and ambitions for premium whiskey worldwide. 

From Yilan to the world

Kavalan takes its identity after the historic designation of Yilan County in Taiwan. The distillery uses water from the headwaters of Snow Mountain, and its whiskey matures in casks exposed to heat, humidity and coastal air that is characteristic of the region.

“Kavalan is the most representative single malt whiskey to come from a subtropical climate,” says Li. “That allows very fruity notes, which is part of our DNA.” Taiwan’s tea culture also subtly influences flavor profiles. “Tea is very important in Taiwan, and that influence also comes through in our offerings.”

Founded by Tien‑Tsai Lee and his son, Chairman Y.T. Lee, Kavalan was created with the goal of producing world-class whiskey on Taiwanese soil. Drawing inspiration from Scotland and Japan, the distillery released its first commercial expression, Kavalan Classic, in 2008, highlighting Taiwan’s potential with tropical fruit notes. In 2018, the Lees became the first father-and-son duo inducted into the World Whiskies Awards Hall of Fame.

Today, Kavalan produces around 10 million bottles annually under the King Car Group, which has more than four decades of experience in beverage production. Its Solist Vinho Barrique was named World’s Best Single Malt Whiskey at the 2015 World Whiskies Awards, marking its rise on the international stage. Since then, Kavalan has earned multiple Best of the Best Single Malt titles at the Tokyo Whiskey and Spirits Competition and was awarded Whiskey of the Year at the 2025 International Whiskey Competition for its Solist Fino Sherry Single Cask Strength.

From Taiwan to travel retail

Kavalan has been growing its presence in travel retail with a portfolio spanning core series whiskies, channel-limited releases and the Solist series. The Solist Vinho Barrique, crafted using the STR (shave-toast-rechar) process, demonstrates the brand’s expertise in cask management.

Recent global travel retail launches highlight Kavalan’s strategy for exclusivity and regional appeal. The Distiller’s Reserve Series, developed with South Korea’s Jeju Tourism Organization, combines ex-bourbon casks with sherry and rum casks in two expressions available exclusively at Jeju Duty Free. The Grand Reserve No. 1 and No. 2, exclusive to Lotte Duty Free, blend Vinho wine casks with Spanish Amontillado sherry, Madeira and port casks, creating rich, fruity profiles. The Rhythm of Taiwan Collection, debuted at Everrich Duty Free in Taipei, opened with an Ocean expression matured in Fino sherry casks, delivering tropical fruit aromas balanced by nutty and chocolate notes.

Packaging is a key part of Kavalan’s travel retail strategy. Li explained, “Many people don’t know much about Taiwan, so we use elements such as orchids, snow mountains and water, which are both important Taiwanese elements and in whiskey making.” Smaller bottles and miniature gift sets cater to travelers seeking accessible premium experiences, while limited editions appeal to connoisseurs. “Smaller sizes provide more accessible pricing, which is why we launch miniature gift sets,” Li said. “We have sets that mix different casks, making it easier for gifting.”

Kavalan also enhances its presence through immersive experiences both in travel retail and beyond. The Warehouse Tasting Room, opened in 2024, offers cask-to-glass tastings while educating visitors about the distillery and Yilan’s environment. The Kavalan Whiskey Bar in Taipei, launched in 2019, mirrors the maturation warehouses and features cocktails, limited editions and guided tastings. In airports, Kavalan uses brand ambassadors who explain the casks used. “This approach is most prevalent in Korea, Kavalan’s largest market, as well as Singapore,” explained Li.

The international stage

By blending quality, innovation and cultural storytelling, the brand aims to strengthen its position as a pioneer of Taiwanese whiskey on the international stage. Asia-Pacific continues to be a key growth market, though Kavalan is also expanding in Europe and the U.S.

Li also notes a promising shift. “After COVID, many markets adjusted their alcohol purchase policies. For example, in some places, you can now buy two bottles or multiple smaller bottles within a total liter allowance.”

Looking ahead, Li is confident in the continued growth of whiskey worldwide. “We see world whiskey growing, and premium whiskey growing along with that,” he concludes.