Suntory Yamazaki Distillery Reopens to Celebrate Its 100th Anniversary, Enhancing Quality and Promoting Distillery Charm Even Further.

Renewal of Key Facilities and Introduction of Two New Guided Tours

Suntory Corporation is renovating the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery (Factory Manager: Keiku Fujii, Location: Yamazaki, Mishima District, Osaka Prefecture) and will open it to the general public starting from November 1st.

In 2023, Suntory Founder Shinjiro Torii will mark the 100th anniversary of his initiation of whiskey production in Yamazaki. Since embarking on the whiskey-making journey in 1923, the company has continuously strived to create and develop the "whiskey culture" and deliver exquisite quality, while conveying the charm of whiskey, persistently dedicating itself to improving quality.

With the main objective of further enhancing quality and promoting the allure of the distillery, renovations and improvements are being carried out at the Yamazaki Distillery and Hakushu Distillery through 2024 (Refer to: https://www.suntory.co.jp/news/article/14314.html).

Through this renovation, the Yamazaki Distillery aims to create a facility where visitors can truly experience the essence of Japanese whiskey-making, shaped by the harmony of Japan's nature and terroir, as well as the craftsmanship of its creators, highlighting the delicate artistry unique to the Japanese whiskey-making process and showcasing the captivating aspects of the distillery as a place of craftsmanship.

Furthermore, as a distillery that embodies the relentless pursuit of quality in the spirit of "genuine and authentic" whiskey-making inherited from Shinjiro Torii, the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery has long had a "Pilot Distillery*" within its premises, a testament to its commitment to the true essence of whiskey craftsmanship. The distillery has also continually invested in upgrading and introducing new manufacturing facilities on-site, focusing on new technological developments and the production of high-quality spirits. In this renovation, we are expanding the facility's exhibitions and guided tours to provide an even more immersive experience of the unique charms of the Yamazaki Distillery.

A small-scale distillation facility for quality research and technological development located within a corner of the Yamazaki Distillery.

▼ Entrance

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the new Yamazaki Distillery, we have transformed the entrance area and other parts of the site into a "forest" that harmonizes with nature, using vegetation from the forests of Shimamoto Town and Oyamazaki Town in the surrounding areas. By planting trees and plants, we have created a green space. Passing through a gate made from recycled copper material from distillation stills, visitors can experience the unique and somewhat mystical atmosphere of the Yamazaki "forest." You can enjoy this approach as you head to the Yamazaki Whisky Museum, which serves as the new reception area for guided tours and on-site visits.

▼ Yamazaki Whisky Museum

《Exhibits Inside the Museum》

The Yamazaki Whisky Museum is housed within a historic building that has remained on the Yamazaki Distillery site since its operational days. Leveraging the unique interior of this building, we have enhanced our storytelling of the Suntory Whisky craftsmanship, which has been passed down from its founder, Shinjiro Torii, and emphasized both continuity and innovation. The museum now features extensive exhibits on the diverse production of original spirits at the Yamazaki Distillery and the crafting of spirits capable of long-term aging. Through these exhibits, visitors can appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship that Yamazaki Distillery embodies in every detail, fostering an anticipation for the future of Japanese whiskey's exquisite quality.

《Tasting Lounge》

We have reopened the Tasting Lounge as a special space surrounded by a diverse collection of original spirit bottles crafted at the Yamazaki Distillery. Here, you can savor various Suntory Whisky brands, including the Suntory Single Malt Whisky "Yamazaki," as well as unique original spirits that can only be enjoyed in this location. The Tasting Lounge features a renewed ambiance with elements like a bar counter made from recycled pot stills once used at the Yamazaki Distillery, stand-up tables for sampling original spirits, and lounge chairs where you can gaze out at the "forest" beyond the windows. Whether you are a seasoned whisky enthusiast or trying whisky for the first time, we aim to provide a luxurious space where a wide range of customers can savor Japanese whisky exclusively crafted at the Yamazaki Distillery.

● Regarding the Renewal of Yamazaki Distillery Tours *Participants must be over 20 years of age.

▼ Yamazaki Distillery Craftsmanship Tour

• Duration: 80 minutes
• Participation Fee: ¥3,000 (including tax)
• Main Highlights:

Experience the production process of "Suntory Single Malt Whisky Yamazaki" and immerse your senses in the unique aromas and temperatures that can only be felt in this location. During the tasting session, you can enjoy "Suntory Single Malt Whisky Yamazaki," rare "Malt Whisky Original Spirits," and "Yamazaki Highball."

After the tour, you'll receive a complimentary "Yamazaki Original Tasting Glass" to take home as a souvenir.

▼ Yamazaki Distillery Craftsmanship Tour - Prestige

• Duration: 120 minutes
• Participation Fee: ¥10,000 (including tax)
• Main Highlights:

Witness the production process of the Suntory Single Malt Whisky "Yamazaki" brand and immerse your senses in the unique aromas and temperatures that can only be experienced at this location. Through exclusive visits to production areas and observing the actual work of the craftsmen, which are only available on the Prestige Tour, we will provide you with a detailed insight into the dedication to craftsmanship unique to the Yamazaki Distillery. During the tasting session, savor "Yamazaki 12-Year-Old" and rare "Malt Whisky Original Spirits," among other selections.

▼ "Suntory Yamazaki Distillery" Website

https://www.suntory.co.jp/factory/yamazaki/

▽ Contact Information for Inquiries Regarding This Matter

Suntory Customer Center: https://www.suntory.co.jp/customer/