Making it Suntory Time For 100 Years

When it comes to Japanese Whisky there’s none more iconic than Suntory. It’s been a house of innovation, constantly reinventing itself for several generations as it marks its 100th anniversary. It’s become known for it’s world-class spirits including Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita, Kakubin, Hibiki, Suntory Whisky and Toki, as well as Roku Gin and Haku Vodka.

To celebrate this anniversary they found the most respected man on the planet to represent them. I of course mean the leader of the free world, Keanu Reeves. Alongside him, Lost in Translation director Sofia Coppola returned to Japan to celebrate with an actual ad this time. It’s not bad! Crimson and Clover by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts was a great backing track choice. While Bill Murray’s character in the film may have had a miserable time filming an advert for Suntory his constant reiteration of their slogan “Suntory Time” embedded itself in movie goers minds forever.

No centennial would be worth its salt if it didn’t have its own whisky, and the House of Suntory delivered in spades with two limited-edition bottlings, the Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt and Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara. Both have 48% ABV and are going for $3,799 and $4,599 respectively.

New Zealand wasn’t left out of celebrations, with Whisky Tastings going out to a lucky few to catch a drop of the limited edition 100 Year Anniversary Yamazaki 18YO. Here’s what those celebrations looked like. Cheers Suntory. Here’s to another 100 years.