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The Art of Japanese Whisky with Hibiki

Step into the world of Japanese whisky with an intimate tasting experience hosted at Waltz Bar during London Craft Week. This exclusive event celebrates the artistry, craftsmanship and quiet precision that define the House of Suntory, the founding house of Japanese whisky.

Your journey begins with the story of Shinjiro Torii, whose visionary opening of the Yamazaki Distillery in 1923 established Japan’s first whisky distillery and laid the foundation for a spirit now revered worldwide. Inspired by nature, balance and harmony, House of Suntory whiskies have become celebrated for their elegance, refinement and meticulous blending.

Guiding the evening is Raffaele Di Monaco, UK Brand Ambassador for the House of Suntory, who will lead a curated tasting of Hibiki, Japan’s most awarded blended whisky. Through this guided exploration, guests will discover the philosophy behind Japanese whisky blending and the delicate artistry required to unite multiple malt and grain whiskies into a single, harmonious expression.

The evening’s setting is Waltz, the intimate Japanese cocktail bar created by renowned bartender Gento Torigata. Known for his dedication to craft and detail, Torigata brings a distinctly Japanese approach to bartending, where every gesture reflects precision, balance and care.

Guests will also witness the captivating tradition of Japanese ice carving, with a demonstration of the meticulous technique that transforms solid blocks of ice into crystal-clear forms designed to enhance both the aesthetic and sensory experience of whisky.

Blending exceptional spirits, cultural storytelling and the spirit of omotenashi, Japan’s art of wholehearted hospitality, this rare London Craft Week experience offers a refined journey into the heritage, craft and beauty of Japanese whisky.