The Ultimate Guide to Suntory Whisky

Suntory, one of Japan’s most prolific whisky makers, has been at the forefront of Japanese whisky production for nearly a century. Known for brands like Hibiki, Yamazaki, and Toki, Suntory has played a crucial role in establishing Japanese whisky on the global stage. This guide will walk you through the essentials of Suntory whisky, from its rich history to how best to enjoy it, and explore why it has become a favourite among whisky enthusiasts worldwide.

History

Suntory’s whisky journey began in the early 20th century, making it Japan’s oldest brand. The company’s visionary founder, Shinjiro Torii, opened Japan’s first malt whisky distillery, Yamazaki, in 1923. This bold move laid the foundation for what would become a thriving Japanese whisky industry.

Torii’s decision to build a distillery in Yamazaki was no coincidence. The area, located on the outskirts of Kyoto, was renowned for its excellent water quality and diverse climate conditions, both crucial factors in whisky production. These natural advantages, combined with Torii’s determination to create a whisky tailored to the Japanese palate, set the stage for Suntory’s future success.

Over the decades, Suntory continued to innovate and expand. In 1973, they opened their second distillery, Hakushu, nestled in the forests of Mount Kaikomagatake. This distillery, known for its Hakushu 12 Year Old expression, brought a new dimension to Suntory’s whisky portfolio with its fresh, herbal character.

Key Brands

Hibiki

• A blended whisky line that exemplifies the art of Japanese craftsmanship
• Known for its smooth, harmonious flavours and iconic bottle design
• Includes the popular Japanese Harmony expression, as well as age-statement versions like the highly sought-after Hibiki 17 Year Old

Yamazaki

• Suntory’s flagship single malt whisky
• Produced at Japan’s first malt whisky distillery
• Offers a range of expressions, including the Yamazaki 12 Year Old, known for its complex fruity and spicy notes

Toki

• A blended whisky designed specifically for highballs
• Light and versatile, ideal for cocktails and mixed drinks
• Represents Suntory’s innovative approach to creating whiskies that cater to modern drinking preferences

Hakushu

• A single malt whisky produced at Suntory’s mountain distillery
• Known for its fresh, green, and lightly smoky character
• Offers various expressions, including the Hakushu 12 Year Old and the rare Hakushu 25 Year Old

How to Enjoy Suntory Whisky

Suntory whiskies can be enjoyed in various ways, each highlighting different aspects of their complex flavour profiles:

1. Neat: Sip it straight to appreciate the full flavor profile and subtle nuances of the whisky.
2. On the rocks: Over ice for a chilled experience that can help open up some of the whisky’s hidden flavors.
3. Highball: A popular serving method in Japan, mixing whisky with soda water for a refreshing and easy-drinking cocktail.
4. With water: Adding a few drops of water can help release aromatic compounds and soften the alcohol bite, allowing you to discover new flavors.

For those interested in exploring more whisky cocktails, Suntory whiskies can be excellent bases for a variety of mixed drinks.

How to Make a Suntory Highball

The highball is an iconic way to enjoy Suntory whisky, especially in Japan. Here’s how to make the perfect Suntory Highball:

1. Choose a tall, narrow glass to maintain carbonation.
2. Fill the glass to the brim with high-quality, clear ice.
3. Chill your Suntory whisky (ideally Toki or Kakubin) in the freezer for about 30 minutes before use.
4. Pour 30ml (1 oz) of the chilled Suntory whisky over the ice.
5. Stir gently 3-4 times to cool the whisky and glass.
6. Slowly add 120-150ml (4-5 oz) of chilled soda water, pouring it down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
7. Give a single, gentle stir from bottom to top with a bar spoon to mix without losing carbonation.
8. Garnish with a twist of lemon or grapefruit peel, expressing the oils over the drink before dropping it in.

Pro tip: For an extra crisp highball, chill your glasses in the freezer for about 30 minutes before serving.

Authenticity and Craftsmanship

Suntory meets the rigorous standards set by the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association for labelling genuine Japanese whisky. This commitment ensures that you’re experiencing authentic Japanese craftsmanship when you’re drinking Suntory.

The company’s dedication to quality is evident in every step of the whisky-making process, from grain selection to mashing and fermentation, and finally to maturation. Suntory’s master blenders are renowned for their skill in creating harmonious and complex whiskies that reflect the essence of Japanese craftsmanship.

Flavour Profiles

Suntory offers a diverse range of flavour profiles across its different products, catering to various palates and preferences:

• Toki: Light and versatile, with a balance of malty sweetness, subtle fruitiness, and a hint of smoke. Ideal for highballs and other cocktails.
• Hibiki: Known for its smoothness and harmony of flavours. Expect notes of honey, orange peel, and a touch of mizunara oak, unique to Japanese whisky.
• Yamazaki: Complex and rich, with a distinct Japanese character. Flavours can include dried fruit, cherry blossom, Mizunara oak, and subtle smoke.
• Hakushu: Fresh and lightly peated, with green apple, mint, and gentle smoke notes. A unique profile among Japanese whiskies.

Cultural Impact

Suntory’s cultural influence extends far beyond the world of spirits, permeating various aspects of both Japanese and global culture:

1. Cinematic Fame: Suntory gained international recognition through its prominent feature in Sofia Coppola’s 2003 film “Lost in Translation.” The memorable line “For relaxing times, make it Suntory time,” delivered by Bill Murray’s character, introduced many Westerners to Japanese whisky and became a pop culture reference.
2. Advertising Legacy: Suntory’s advertising campaigns have been groundbreaking in Japan. In the 1970s, they hired renowned film director Akira Kurosawa to direct a series of commercials featuring iconic American actors like Sammy Davis Jr. and Francis Ford Coppola, bridging Eastern and Western cultures through whisky.
3. Literary Inspiration: Japanese author Haruki Murakami often mentions Suntory whisky in his novels, including “The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle,” contributing to its mystique among literary circles worldwide.
4. Craft Cocktail Renaissance: Suntory played a significant role in the global craft cocktail revival of the 2000s and 2010s. The reintroduction of the Japanese highball, championed by Suntory, influenced bar menus worldwide and sparked interest in precision cocktail-making techniques.
5. Corporate Culture Icon: In Japan, Suntory whisky has long been associated with after-work socializing and business meetings, becoming a symbol of corporate culture and team bonding.
6. Collector’s Items: Limited edition releases like the Yamazaki 55 Year Old have achieved legendary status among whisky collectors, with bottles selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.
7. Culinary Influence: The rise of Suntory whisky has influenced Japanese cuisine, with chefs incorporating it into dishes and creating whisky-pairing menus, elevating it beyond just a drink to a culinary component.

Food Pairings

Suntory whiskies offer a wide range of flavor profiles that pair beautifully with various cuisines. Here’s a detailed guide to pairing Suntory whiskies with specific dishes:

Yamazaki

• Sushi and Sashimi: The fruity and slightly spicy notes of Yamazaki complement the delicate flavors of raw fish.
  • Try: Fatty tuna (otoro) sashimi with Yamazaki 12 Year Old
• Grilled Mushrooms: The earthy umami of grilled mushrooms pairs well with Yamazaki’s complexity.
  • Try: Grilled shiitake mushrooms with Yamazaki 18 Year Old
• Aged Cheeses: The whisky’s depth stands up well to strong cheeses.
  • Try: Aged Gouda or Parmigiano-Reggiano with Yamazaki 25 Year Old

Hibiki

• Fruit-based Desserts: Hibiki’s harmonious blend works well with fruit-forward sweets.
  • Try: Apple tart or poached pears with Hibiki Japanese Harmony
• Smoked Salmon: The whisky’s subtle smokiness complements the fish.
  • Try: Smoked salmon blinis with Hibiki 17 Year Old
• Dark Chocolate: The sweetness of Hibiki pairs beautifully with rich chocolate.
  • Try: 70% dark chocolate truffles with Hibiki 21 Year Old

Hakushu

• Grilled Vegetables: Hakushu’s fresh, green notes complement grilled veggies.
  • Try: Grilled asparagus or zucchini with Hakushu 12 Year Old
• Herb-crusted Fish: The whisky’s herbal character pairs well with similarly flavored dishes.
  • Try: Herb-crusted sea bass with Hakushu 18 Year Old
• Citrus Desserts: Hakushu’s light, citrusy notes work well with lemon or lime-based sweets.
  • Try: Lemon meringue pie with Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve

Toki

• Spicy Foods: Toki’s light profile and crispness when served as a highball complement spicy dishes.
  • Try: Spicy tuna roll or Thai green curry with a Toki Highball
• Fried Foods: The effervescence of a Toki Highball cuts through rich, fried dishes.
  • Try: Tempura vegetables or karaage (Japanese fried chicken) with a Toki Highball
• Light Appetizers: Toki’s versatility pairs well with a variety of light bites.
  • Try: Edamame or gyoza (Japanese dumplings) with Toki neat or in a highball

Remember, these are suggestions, and personal taste always plays a role. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to delightful discoveries in whisky and food pairing.

Glassware and Serving

The choice of glassware can significantly impact the whisky-tasting experience. For Suntory whiskies:

• Use a tulip-shaped glass for neat pours to concentrate aromas.
• Opt for a rocks glass when serving over ice.
• Choose tall, narrow glasses for highballs to maintain carbonation.

Exploring Further

For those looking to deepen their knowledge of Suntory and Japanese whisky:

• Several books and guides are available, including “Japanese Whisky: The Ultimate Guide to the World’s Most Desirable Spirit.”
• Keep an eye out for limited editions and special releases, which are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
• Consider exploring other Japanese whisky brands like Nikka or Akashi to broaden your understanding of the category.
• Attend whisky tastings or masterclasses focused on Japanese whiskies to learn from experts and fellow enthusiasts.

Guide to Suntory Whisky: Conclusion

Whether you’re new to Japanese whisky or a seasoned enthusiast, Suntory offers a range of products to explore and enjoy. From the versatile Toki to the complex Yamazaki, there’s a Suntory whisky for every palate and occasion. Start your journey with a classic highball, explore the nuanced flavours neat, or experiment with food pairings – the world of Suntory whisky is rich with possibilities and discoveries waiting to be made.

As you delve deeper into the realm of Japanese whisky, remember that each sip is not just a taste of fine spirits, but a connection to a culture that values precision, harmony, and craftsmanship. Suntory’s whiskies are a testament to the art of blending tradition with innovation, creating a drinking experience that is uniquely Japanese yet universally appreciated.