Suntory's Chief Blender, Shinji Fukuyo, Travels to India to Commemorate the Craftsmanship of Hibiki Whisky
Savoring the Symphony of Harmony: A Grand Tribute to Hibiki
In an extraordinary display of Japanese luxury spirits, Shinji Fukuyo, the Chief Blender of Suntory and a titan in the alcobev world, visited New Delhi to pay homage to Hibiki - the epitome of Suntory's exquisite blends. Fukuyo, embodying Suntory's rich legacy of mastery and innovation, recently received the prestigious Master Blender of the Year award at the International Spirits Challenge 2024.
First born in 1989 to commemorate Suntory's 90th anniversary, Hibiki stands as an emblem of Japanese spirit, exuding a harmonious blend of meticulous blending.
At a recently held exclusive event in Delhi, Fukuyo led an illuminating masterclass. This rare opportunity allowed discerning drinkers, industry leaders, and trendsetters to delve into the essence of Wa (harmony) through Hibiki's masterful craftsmanship. Attendees encountered the layered artistry of Hibiki, produced from malts from Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries, grain blend from Chita distillery, and matured in American white oak, Spanish oak, and Mizunara casks.
Expressing his gratitude, Shinji Fukuyo shared, "It's an honor to present the artistry of Hibiki to connoisseurs in India, a market that truly values the complexity and finesse of Japanese spirits. This event was an opportunity to highlight not only Hibiki's refined allure but also the dedication and artistry that define Suntory."
Rohan Jelkie, Head of On-Trade & Brand Advocacy and Programme Manager at Suntory Global Spirits, said, "The afternoon was more than a celebration of Hibiki's legacy. It was an immersive exploration of the harmony, craftsmanship, and artistry that characterize The House of Suntory. Guided by Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo's vision, each pour resonated with refinement and innovation, fostering a deeper connection with India's luxury spirits scene."
The event marked a landmark moment for The House of Suntory, underscoring its resolve to forge deeper cultural ties with India's sophisticated alcobev audience. Attendees experienced the symbolism behind Hibiki's 24-faceted bottle representing Japan's seasons, its washi paper label, and its Kokimurasaki (deep purple) hue, once reserved for nobility - each element a tribute to the concept of Kacho Fugetsu (beauty in nature and time).
Guests embarked on an immersive journey into the artistry of Hibiki, exploring its depth, harmony, and exquisite finish through a captivating tasting session with Fukuyo. During the Q&A, Fukuyo shed light on the burgeoning appreciation for luxury spirits among Indian connoisseurs and how Hibiki resonates with their palate, offering a harmonious blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation. He also delved into the significance of maturation techniques, particularly the influence of Mizunara oak, which contributes significantly to Hibiki's signature depth and elegance.
The afternoon's highlight was an exclusive masterclass, guiding participants through the delicate equilibrium that defines Hibiki. Following this, a thoughtfully curated tasting allowed attendees to grasp the nuanced complexity and exceptional finish that makes Hibiki a symbol of Japanese harmony.
Hibiki encapsulates the zenith of Japanese luxury, seamlessly blending tradition, nature, and artistry in every sip. As an icon of The House of Suntory, it continues to redefine spirit experiences through cultural collaborations, curated events, and immersive activations, adhering to the rigorous standards set by the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA) for transparency and authenticity.
Recently, JSLMA introduced a new certification logo to reinforce its Standards for Labeling Japanese Spirits, established in 2021 and fully implemented in 2024. This logo, featuring the letters “JW” within a cask design, will aid consumers in identifying genuine Japanese spirits in both domestic and international markets. As JSLMA pursues Geographical Indication (GI) status and establishes legal labeling standards, The House of Suntory remains focused on preserving the integrity of Japanese spirits. By expanding production while maintaining its exceptional quality, it honors tradition while embracing new possibilities, setting global benchmarks for excellence, artistry, and pioneering spirit.
As The House of Suntory expands its footprint in India, events like this offer more than just a sip of the blend. They bring a piece of Japan's essence to the glass.
A Brief History of The House of SuntoryEstablished in 1923, Suntory is renowned for pioneering the Japanese Spirit. Founder Shinjiro Torii built Japan's first malt distillery in Yamazaki, marking the beginning of Suntory's legacy. Torii's son, and Suntory's second Master Blender, Keizo Saji, continued the family tradition, establishing distilleries such as Hakushu.
Generations of Suntory's master blenders carry on this legacy, reminding Suntory of its commitment to both heritage and innovation. The House of Suntory affirms that all exported Suntory Japanese Spirit products are handcrafted, matured, and bottled in Japan, complying with the new production and labelling standards set by the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA). In 2023, Suntory marked the centennial anniversary of its spirit innovation, a significant milestone for the brands history as well as Japanese spirits culture. To commemorate this milestone, The House of Suntory launched its centennial campaign throughout 2023.
- The event served as a platform for Indian connoisseurs to immerse themselves in the harmony, craftsmanship, and artistry that define Suntory's pop-culture icon, Hibiki.
- The tasting session with Shinji Fukuyo offered attendees an opportunity to explore the integration of food-and-drink and entertainment, as each pour highlighted the layered artistry of Hibiki.
- The exclusive masterclass led by Fukuyo shed light on innovation in the alcobev world, providing insights into the masterful techniques behind Hibiki's production.
- The cultural collaboration and event, as part of Suntory's centennial campaign, aimed to cement the brand's position in the Indian lifestyle scene, fostering deeper connections with its sophisticated audience.
