The house of Suntory is the pioneer in fine Japanese whisky since 1923. It was built on a singular dream – founder Shinjiro Torii wanted to enrich the lives of the Japanese people, so he grew into an entrepreneur, maker and doer. Inspired by the riches of Japan’s nature, he chose the Yamazaki area for its reputed soft water, unique climate, and beautiful seasons. All of which would contribute to the distinctive Japanese character of Suntory whiskies.
Shinjiro Torii was born in the Meiji period, when western culture and civilization suddenly flowed into Japan. At a young age, Torii entered an apprenticeship at a pharmaceutical wholesaler in Osaka that carried western liquors. There he engaged in stylish western pursuits and mastered techniques of mixing, then developed a discriminating palate and nose. He mastered techniques of mixing and blending through his apprenticeships. In the year 1899, Shinjiro Torii went independent, renting a modest house where generations of pursuit of a dream all started.
Shinjiro achieved his dream to “create an original Japanese Whisky blessed with the riches of Japanese nature and ‘Monozukuri’ craftsmanship.” Today, that vision continues, and The House of Suntory now represents a house of Japanese culture - rich experience and homage to Japan in every bottle, ready to be discovered by the world as we enter our second millennium.
