The The House of Suntory hosted an exclusive Hibiki whisky experience in India on March 31, 2026, at Fairmont Mumbai and on April 2, 2026, at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru. The evenings were led by Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender of Suntory Global Spirits, and centered on Hibiki—Suntory’s iconic blended Japanese whisky known for its philosophy of harmony in craftsmanship.
As the fifth-generation Chief Blender in Suntory’s century-long legacy, Fukuyo represents a lineage of mastery that underpins Hibiki’s creation. Central to this is the Japanese philosophy of Wa, or harmony, where balance, subtlety, and depth are achieved through precise and thoughtful blending. His visit connected Japan’s storied whisky heritage with India’s growing appreciation for refined, premium spirits.
The experience unfolded as intimate, immersive showcases designed to bring the world of Hibiki to life. Hosted at Madeleine de Proust at Fairmont, Mumbai and The Collections at Four Seasons, Bengaluru, the evenings featured exclusive tastings and masterclasses that brought together whisky connoisseurs, industry leaders, and tastemakers for a sensorial journey guided by Fukuyo.
In Bengaluru, the experience extended into cultural expressions, including an ice carving showcase led by Robert Hospet, Portfolio Advocate, South India, Suntory Global Spirits, and a calligraphy station offering personalised mementos. These elements, created using traditional Japanese techniques and minimalist design, reflected the quiet interplay of time, precision, and transformation that defines Hibiki.
At the core of the evening was an exploration of Hibiki’s blending philosophy, rooted in the ideals of Miyabi, a Japanese concept of elegance and refinement. Guests were introduced to the meticulous process behind Hibiki, which blends whiskies from the Yamazaki Distillery, Hakushu Distillery, and Chita Distillery.
Matured across American white oak, Spanish oak, and rare Mizunara oak casks, Hibiki reveals its complexity through integration rather than intensity. Fukuyo shared insights into the Japanese approach to blending, where patience, sensitivity, and respect for nature guide every decision.
The event also highlighted the symbolism embedded in Hibiki’s design—from the bottle’s 24 facets representing the Japanese lunar calendar to the washi paper label and nuanced colour palette. These details reflect the natural rhythms and aesthetic principles that shape Hibiki’s character, drawing subtle parallels with India’s own heritage of craftsmanship and storytelling.
Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender, Suntory Global Spirits, said, “Hibiki is an expression of harmony, bringing together nature, craftsmanship, and time in a way that is both subtle and deeply layered. In Japan, we pursue balance and refinement with great care, and Hibiki reflects this philosophy in every detail. It was a pleasure to share this approach with guests in India, where there is a growing appreciation for authenticity, craftsmanship, and the quiet beauty of Japanese whisky.”
