Suntory Yamazaki Distillery(Suntory Holdings Limited)(Google Maps)

Since Japanese distilleries claimed first and second place in the Best of the Best (predecessor of the World Whiskies Awards), a prestigious international whisky competition, in 2001, Japanese distilleries have raised their adoptive craft to new heights ever since.

A largely monastic practice, the distilling of spirits was developed in Europe and was embraced by farmers and amateurs alike in the UK following King Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century. The dark-hued spirit is made from fermented grain mash, with wheat, rye, corn and barley used to produce different varieties. It soon became common practice to age whisky in wooden casks, with Ireland and Scotland becoming forerunners in the production and development of whisky as it’s known today. As the craft was fine-tuned with barrel aging and improved distillation methods, it eventually made its way to Japan.

In 1923, amid the cultural fusion of the Meiji Era opening up new possibilities, Shinjiro Torii, the Founder and Master Blender of Suntory, had dreams of creating Western-Style liquors to suit the Japanese palate. Having experimented by creating his own fortified wine, he invested his fortune in building the country’s first malt whisky distillery. Located in Yamazaki, the distillery was to bring his dream of creating an authentic whisky born from the Japanese climate and suited to Japanese palates. The site sits at the foot of Mt. Tennozan, chosen for the high-quality water and humid hillscapes which create perfect conditions for cask aging, soon nicknamed “Suntory Maturation.”

Suntory Whisky Hakushu(Suntory Holdings Limited)

Since the launch of Suntory Whisky Kakubin in 1937, the company has become a household name, with countless varieties found on shelves both at home and abroad. 50 years after the opening of the Yamazaki Distillery, the Hakushu Distillery began crafting delicate single malt whisky that would continue the family tradition of winning over the palates of global whisky lovers. Surrounded by lush green forests at the foot of Mt. Kaikomagatake, it was the dream of Torii’s successor, Keizo Saji. Considered crisp and vibrant thanks to the unique climate of the mountain range, techniques include filtering through granite rocks and adapting casks to match the climate and elevation. In 2020, the Hakushu 25 Year Old single malt won World’s Best Single Malt Whisky for the second time at the World Whiskies Awards. Along with countless gold awards at international festivals, Suntory has become a force to be reckoned with in the world of high-end whisky.

Suntory Hakushu Distillery(Suntory Holdings Limited)

Today, visitors can enjoy a tour of the Hakushu Distillery and immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural setting as part of the experience. Tours offer a unique opportunity to witness the distillation process and how it has been developed over time with new innovations and traditional techniques combined. The tasting room and shop are combined, with reservations required to ensure this is a savored experience with no need to rush.

Japanese Alps, Yatsugatake, Yamanashi/Nagano Prefectures(Google Maps)

Located close to the skiing haven of Nagano, the distillery is an ideal day trip from the slopes. The mountainous surrounds provide the best of both worlds, as it is found just within the northern borders of Yamanashi, known as the Yatsugatake region. Whether you prefer the pristine slopes of winter or the lush hiking trails that appear in warmer months, the Japanese Alps are a truly stunning landscape to explore. Hike out into the hills and consider camping for a true escape to the nature that has helped craft one of Japan’s finest exports.

For more details, contact DMC Japan to discuss ideas, locations and rates.
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