Extending the House of Suntory
Join us as we explore how the range of Suntory products has grown into what we know today.
The people of the island nation of Japan have always been known for doing things their own way. Their culture of art, cuisine, fashion, literature, cinema and music are renowned throughout the world for their unique characteristics which makes them all unmistakably Japanese. So, it’s no surprise that when Scotch whisky was introduced to the country, an industrious man by the name of Shinjiro Torri created a version that captured the essence and flavour of Japan. It was in 1923 that he founded the House of Suntory, in the Yamazaki region on the outskirts of Kyoto, with the dream of creating a subtle, refined, yet complex whisky that would suit the delicate palate of the Japanese and enhance their dining experience.
Since then, Suntory has become a household name when it comes to Japanese whisky. Now, the range of Suntory products has expanded to help usher a new generation of Japanese distilled spirits. These new additions continue to uphold Shinjiro Torri’s idea of artisan craft, with a deep reverence for Japanese nature.
As global demand for high quality gin continues to rise, the addition of Roku Gin to the range of Suntory products is set to fill the hole in the Japanese gin market. Roku Gin is infused with six Japanese botanicals to take drinkers on a journey through the four seasons. Named after the Japanese word for ‘six’; to symbolise the six unique botanicals used, Roku Gin is crafted by Japanese artisans with a centuries-old tradition of meticulous attention to detail and uses only the highest quality ingredients.
Featuring sakura leaf and flower, gyokuro and sencha tea, sansho pepper and yuzu combined with eight traditional gin botanicals, the result is perfectly balanced Japanese gin that displays aromas of cherry blossom and green tea. The refreshing yuzu adds a silky texture and the sansho pepper provides a hint of spiciness. For the full Japanese flavour experience, pair your Suntory Roku Gin with sashimi or grilled prawns or matcha tea flavoured desserts.
Meaning ‘time’ in Japanese, Suntory Toki Whisky is inspired heavily by a respect for tradition and reinvention through creativity. Known for its exquisite balance, Toki is a blend of whiskies crafted from Suntory’s Hakushu, Yamazaki and Chita distilleries. Toki Whisky brings together the unique flavours of each area, producing a whisky that is both ground-breaking, timeless and steeped in the House of Suntory’s proud heritage and innovative spirit.
With notes of basil, green apple and honey on the nose, the palate features grapefruit, green grapes, peppermint and thyme with a subtle sweet and spicy finish. Pair with fried karaage (chicken) or gyoza (dumplings), wagyu steak, ramen or teriyaki chicken to experience the full Japanese harmony that Suntory Toki Whisky brings.
The addition of Haku Vodka to the range of Suntory products has seen the Japanese distiller reach full circle – now offering something for everyone. Made with 100% Japanese white rice, Haku Vodka is the House of Suntory;s premium craft vodka. Meaning ‘white’ or ‘brilliant’ in Japanese, Haku is a clear, clean and luminous vodka that is filtered through bamboo charcoal to give it an unparalleled flavour.
Haku Vodka displays a soft aroma on the nose that is played up by the delicate floral scent of rice that carries through to the palate with sweetness and complexity. The smooth finish is sophisticated and lingers as a tribute to the masters that have crafted a vodka unlike any other. But as with all things from the House of Suntory, the harmony of old and new is evident with its ability to pair perfectly with some of the most traditional of Japanese dishes including sushi, pickled vegetables, miso, and edamame.
The flavours of Japan are as unique as they are plentiful, and now thanks to the House of Suntory, you can take a sensory exploration of the land of the rising sun any time you like.
