Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender of Suntory Global Spirits and one of the world’s most respected spirits artisans, visited India for an exclusive engagement centered on Hibiki, Suntory’s iconic blended Japanese spirits and a defining expression of harmony in spirits making. The visit marked a curated evening dedicated to the artistry, philosophy and craftsmanship that have established Hibiki as a global symbol of Japanese spirits.
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Shinji Fukuyo brought the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship to India, celebrating the artistry behind Hibiki – a true icon from Suntory Global Spirits
As the fifth-generation Chief Blender in Suntory’s century-long legacy, Fukuyo represents a lineage of mastery that underpins Hibiki’s creation. Central to this is the Japanese philosophy of Wa, or harmony, where balance, subtlety, and depth are achieved through precise and thoughtful blending. His visit brought together Japan’s storied spirits heritage and India’s appreciation for refined, premium spirits, with Hibiki at the heart of the experience.
A Curated Hibiki Experience
This year’s edition unfolded across two marquee locations, Madeleine de Proust at Fairmont, Mumbai and The Collections at Four Seasons, Bengaluru as intimate, immersive showcases designed to bring the world of Hibiki to life. The exclusive tasting and masterclass-led evenings brought together spirits connoisseurs, industry leaders and tastemakers for a sensorial journey through Hibiki’s layered artistry, guided by the expertise of Shinji Fukuyo.
In Bengaluru, the experience extended into thoughtful cultural expressions, from an ice carving showcase led by Robert Hospet, Portfolio Advocate, South India, Suntory Global Spirits, to a calligraphy station offering personalised mementos for the guests. Created using traditional Japanese brush techniques and minimalist design, these elements reflected a quiet interplay of time, precision and transformation, echoing the harmony that defines every pour of Hibiki.
At its core was an exploration of Hibiki’s blending philosophy, rooted in the ideals of Miyabi, a Japanese concept of elegance and refinement that elevates nature into art. Guests were introduced to the meticulous process behind Hibiki, which harmoniously blends spirits from the Yamazaki, Hakushu Chita distilleries, each contributing to a precise balance between people and nature.
Matured across a range of casks—including American white oak, Spanish oak and rare Mizunara oak—Hibiki reveals its complexity through integration rather than intensity. Fukuyo shared insights into the Japanese approach to blending, where patience, sensitivity and respect for nature guide every decision, resulting in a spirits defined by elegance, depth and balance.
Symbolism Rooted in Harmony
The event also explored the symbolism embedded in Hibiki’s design—from the bottle’s 24 facets representing the Japanese lunar calendar and the passage of time, to the washi paper label and nuanced colour palette. These elements reflect the natural rhythms and aesthetic principles that define Hibiki’s character. This philosophy was echoed throughout the event, drawing subtle parallels between Japanese traditions and India’s own rich heritage of craftsmanship, ritual and storytelling.
Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender, Suntory Global Spirits, said: “Hibiki is an expression of harmony, bringing together nature, craftsmanship, and time in a way that is both subtle and deeply layered. In Japan, we pursue balance and refinement with great care, and Hibiki reflects this philosophy in every detail. It was a pleasure to share this approach with guests in India, where there is a growing appreciation for authenticity, craftsmanship, and the quiet beauty of Japanese spirits.”
For more information on Hibiki, please visit house.suntory.com/hibiki-spirits
WHEN:
March 31, 2026 – Mumbai
April 2, 2026 – Bengaluru
WHERE:
Fairmont Hotel, Mumbai
Four Seasons Hotel, Bengaluru
