Suntory Whisky, a distinguished name in the world of spirits, represents a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and meticulous craftsmanship.
With a history dating back to 1923, Suntory has perfected the art and science of whisky making, creating some of the most acclaimed and beloved whiskies globally.
This article delves into the intricate distillation process that sets Suntory Whisky apart, highlighting the unique techniques and principles that contribute to its exceptional quality.
A Legacy Rooted in Tradition
The story of Suntory Whisky begins with its founder, Shinjiro Torii, who established Japan’s first whisky distillery, Yamazaki, near Kyoto.
Inspired by traditional Scottish methods, Torii sought to create a whisky that would resonate with Japanese palates.
Over the decades, Suntory has stayed true to its heritage while continuously evolving and innovating.
Ingredient Selection: The Foundation of Excellence
The distillation process at Suntory starts with the careful selection of ingredients. High-quality barley, sourced both domestically and internationally, serves as the primary grain.
Pure, soft water, drawn from Japan’s pristine natural springs, is another crucial element.
Suntory’s distilleries, particularly Yamazaki and Hakushu, are strategically located to access some of the finest water sources, which significantly influence the whisky’s flavor profile.
Converting Starch to Sugar
The journey of creating Suntory Whisky begins in the mashing room. Here, the barley is ground into grist and mixed with hot water in large mash tuns.
This process converts the starches in the barley into fermentable sugars, resulting in a sweet liquid known as wort.
The temperature and timing of the mashing process are carefully controlled to ensure optimal extraction of sugars, a key factor in developing the whisky’s character.
Developing Complex Flavors
Fermentation is where the magic of flavor development begins. The wort is transferred to wooden washbacks, where yeast is added to initiate fermentation.
Unlike many distilleries that use stainless steel, Suntory uses traditional wooden washbacks made of Japanese cedar or oak.
These wooden vessels allow for micro-oxygenation, which enhances the complexity of the whisky’s flavors.
The fermentation period at Suntory is often extended to allow for the development of more intricate and nuanced flavors.
Precision and Expertise
Distillation is the heart of the whisky-making process, where the art and science truly converge.
Suntory employs a double distillation method using pot stills, a technique rooted in Scottish tradition but refined to meet Suntory’s exacting standards.
Creating the Wash
In the first distillation, the fermented wash is heated in a wash still. As the wash heats, alcohol and other volatile compounds evaporate and are collected in a condenser, separating them from the remaining liquid.
This distillate, known as “low wines,” typically has an alcohol content of around 20-25%.
Second Distillation: Refining the Spirit
The low wines are then distilled a second time in a spirit still. This step is crucial in refining the whisky and concentrating its flavors.
The distillation process is carefully monitored, and the distillate is divided into three parts: the foreshots, the heart, and the feints.
Only the heart, which contains the purest and most desirable flavors, is collected for aging. The foreshots and feints, which contain undesirable compounds, are discarded or redistilled.
Maturation: The Role of Wood
After distillation, the whisky is transferred to oak casks for aging. Suntory uses a variety of casks, including American oak, Spanish oak, and the highly prized Mizunara oak, native to Japan.
Each type of wood imparts different flavors and characteristics to the whisky.
For example, American oak tends to add vanilla and caramel notes, while Mizunara oak contributes unique flavors of sandalwood, coconut, and oriental spices.
The aging process is influenced by Japan’s distinct climate, with hot, humid summers and cold winters accelerating the interaction between the whisky and the wood. This dynamic aging environment adds depth and complexity to the final product.
Blending: The Art of Harmony
One of the most revered aspects of Suntory Whisky is the art of blending. Suntory’s master blenders are tasked with creating harmony and balance in the final product.
They skillfully combine whiskies from different casks, ages, and distilleries to achieve a consistent and complex flavor profile.
This meticulous blending process is akin to composing a symphony, where each note must harmonize with the others to create a masterpiece.
Innovation and Technology
While deeply rooted in tradition, Suntory is also at the forefront of innovation. The distillery employs advanced technologies to enhance quality control and ensure consistency.
From precision monitoring of fermentation temperatures to sophisticated aging warehouses, technology plays a crucial role in supporting the artistry of Suntory’s master distillers and blenders.
Mizunara Oak: A Japanese Signature
Suntory is renowned for its use of Mizunara oak casks in whisky aging, which is native to Japan. The rare and expensive Mizunara wood imparts unique flavors such as sandalwood, coconut, and a hint of oriental spices to the whisky.
The porous nature of Mizunara oak also allows the spirit to breathe more deeply, enhancing its complexity over time.
Water Quality: Japan’s Pristine Springs
Water plays a crucial role in whisky production, and Suntory is privileged to have access to some of Japan’s purest natural springs.
The soft, mineral-rich water sourced from these springs contributes to the smooth and refined character of Suntory Whisky.
The water’s purity ensures that it doesn’t overpower the delicate flavors developed during distillation and aging.
Conclusion
The art and science behind Suntory Whisky’s distillation process are a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence. Every step, from ingredient selection to blending, is executed with precision and care, resulting in whiskies that are celebrated for their complexity, balance, and elegance.
Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a carefully crafted cocktail, Suntory Whisky offers a rich tapestry of flavors that reflect the mastery and passion of its creators.
