The House of Suntory is where Japanese craftsmanship meets whisky tradition—and the result is something truly refined. Founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii, this was Japan’s first whisky distillery, and from the beginning, it set out to do something different: create a whisky that suited the Japanese palate and culture—subtle, harmonious, and deeply connected to nature.

Today, Suntory is known globally for its whiskies, gins, and vodkas, but at the heart of the house is a quiet mastery. Every element—from the water source and climate to the precise blending techniques—is chosen to create spirits that are not just expressive, but balanced. There’s a real sense of restraint and elegance in Suntory’s style. Whether you're drinking one of their entry whiskies or a rare release, that core philosophy holds true.

The whisky range is led by three iconic distilleries: Yamazaki, Japan’s first, located on the misty outskirts of Kyoto; Hakushu, high in the Japanese Alps surrounded by forest; and Chita, which specialises in smooth, grain whisky used in their blends. Each brings something distinct to the table.

Yamazaki is rich and layered—think dried fruit, incense, and gentle spice. Hakushu offers a fresher take, often with herbal, almost forest-like qualities and a touch of soft smoke. Chita brings silkiness and roundness, anchoring Suntory’s blends with smooth structure. Together, they form the building blocks of whiskies like Hibiki, Suntory’s signature blend—delicate, complex, and often seen as one of the best blended whiskies in the world.

Even outside whisky, the same care and balance carry through. Roku Gin, for example, brings together six Japanese botanicals—sakura, yuzu, green tea—and distills them individually for clarity of flavour. The result is clean, fresh, and distinctively Japanese.

What we love about The House of Suntory at Normanby is how it invites a different kind of whisky appreciation. These aren’t spirits that shout—they evolve slowly in the glass, rewarding time and attention. There’s a peacefulness to them, and an incredible depth once you start to explore.

Whether you’re just beginning to discover Japanese whisky or looking to dive deeper into its history and style, Suntory offers a perfect place to start. From elegant single malts to versatile blends and carefully composed gin, there’s something here for every kind of palate.