Chief blender of Suntory visits India

Shinji Fukuyo, chief blender of Suntory and a known alcobev artisan, traveled to New Delhi to celebrate the legacy of Hibiki – Suntory’s blend and a luxury spirit. Fukuyo, the fifth chief blender in Suntory’s century-long history, carries a legacy of mastery and innovation. His expertise was recently recognized with the Master Blender of the Year award at the International Spirits Challenge 2024, an event dedicated to blending.

At the event held in Delhi, Fukuyo led a curated masterclass that offered discerning drinkers, industry leaders, and tastemakers a rare chance to experience the philosophy of Wa (harmony) through Hibiki’s signature craftsmanship. Guests explored the layered artistry of Hibiki, crafted from malts from Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries and grain blend from Chita distillery, matured in American white oak, Spanish oak, and rare Mizunara casks.

Shinji Fukuyo, chief blender of Suntory said, “It is an honor to bring the artistry of Hibiki to premium spirit lovers in India, a market that truly appreciates the depth and craftsmanship of Japanese spirits. This event was an opportunity to showcase not only Hibiki’s refined complexity but also the dedication and meticulous craftsmanship that define Suntory. Looking ahead, we remain committed to expanding the reach of Suntory while staying true to the tradition, innovation, and excellence that have defined our legacy for over a century.”

Rohan Jelkie, head of on-trade & brand advocacy and program manager, Suntory Global Spirits, said, “The afternoon was more than a celebration of Hibiki’s legacy. It was an immersive journey into the harmony, craftsmanship, and artistry that define The House of Suntory. Guided by Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo’s vision, each pour reflected refined elegance and innovation, deepening our connection with India’s luxury spirits landscape.”

The event marked a significant moment for the House of Suntory, underscoring its commitment to deepening cultural connections with India’s discerning alcobev audience. Attendees experienced the symbolism behind Hibiki’s 24-facet 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).

At the event, guests embarked on an immersive journey into the artistry of Hibiki, experiencing its depth, harmony, and refined character through an intimate tasting session led by Fukuyo. The session unveiled the intricate layers that define Hibiki’s unmistakable balance. During the Q&A, Fukuyo shared his insights into the evolving appreciation for luxury spirits among Indian connoisseurs and how Hibiki resonates with their palate. He also elaborated on the significance of maturation techniques and the influence of Mizunara oak, a defining element of Hibiki’s signature depth and elegance.

The afternoon’s highlight was a masterclass, where guests were guided through the delicate equilibrium that embodies Hibiki. Following this, a thoughtfully curated tasting allows attendees to discover the nuanced complexity and exquisite finish that makes Hibiki a true expression of Japanese harmony.

Hibiki represents the pinnacle of Japanese luxury, seamlessly blending tradition, nature, and artistry in every sip. As the icon of The House of Suntory, it continues to redefine spirit experiences through cultural collaborations, curated events, and immersive activations. Committed to unmatched craftsmanship, The House of Suntory leads the category in authentic Japanese blends, adhering to the rigorous standards set by the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA) to ensure transparency and authenticity.

In line with this commitment, JSLMA recently 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 help consumers easily distinguish genuine Japanese spirits in domestic and international markets. As JSLMA works toward securing Geographical Indication (GI) status and establishing legal labeling standards, the House of Suntory remains dedicated to preserving the integrity of Japanese spirits. By expanding production while maintaining its exceptional quality, it honors tradition while embracing new possibilities, continuing to set global benchmarks for excellence, artistry, and pioneering spirit.