JAPANESE

Whisky production in Japan began in the late 1870s, but Suntory was the first commercial distillery in Japan, opening in 1923 in Yamazaki, a suburb of Kyoto.

Suntory’s founder, Shinjiro Torii, was a successful wholesaler who had become successful in selling wine and pharmaceuticals. In 1920, Torii hired Masataka as Yamazaki’s head distiller, a position he would hold until 1934 when he opened his distillery (Yoichi) and founded Nikka.

Shinjiro Torii and Masataka Taketsuru are known as the founding fathers of Japanese Whisky, and their companies are known as fierce rivals in the competitive Japanese Whisky market. Check my reviews on japanese whisky here.

My mission is to provide a great educational and entertaining experience by guiding the tasting experience. Due to alcohol law in the state of Georgia, the host/hostess must make all alcohol purchases. However, whisky suggestions can be provided upon request.