Sydney’s hospitality community was treated to a rare and intimate masterclass last week as Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender of the House of Suntory, visited Australia to present an exclusive deep dive into the craftsmanship behind some of Japan’s most iconic whiskies.
Shinji-san, appointed Chief Blender in 2009 and only the fifth person in Suntory’s history to hold the title, is the creative force behind world-renowned whiskies including Hibiki, Chita and Toki. Across his 40-year career, he has become one of the most respected figures in global whisky, shaping House of Suntory’s modern identity and elevating Japanese whisky on the world stage.
The masterclass, hosted by Club Suntory alongside House of Suntory National Brand Ambassador Natalie Ng, brought together bartenders and hospitality professionals at the Founders Bar in One Suntory Head Office. Attendees experienced a guided tasting of six whiskies while Shinji-san explored his approach to Monozukuri craftsmanship and the core principles of kaizen – continuous improvement and precision.
A highlight of the session was a rare tasting of the liquid components of Hibiki, allowing guests to deconstruct and understand the harmony behind one of Japan’s most awarded blends.
The event closed with an extended Q&A, offering the trade direct access to Shinji’s expertise, personal reflections, and four decades of whisky innovation.
Club Suntory is proud to have hosted this landmark session, celebrating the ongoing legacy and artistry of the House of Suntory.
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