Suntory Pouring $77 Million Into Its Japanese Whisky Distilleries

Suntory, owner of whiskies including Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Laphroaig, and Bowmore, to name a few, is investing a planned $77 million over the next two years to boost operations and enhance the visitor experience at its Japanese whisky distilleries. The company’s Yamazaki and Hakushu Distilleries will be upgraded as part of the investment.

Among the initiatives slated to receive new funding, Yamazaki will see enhancements at its pilot distillery, which the company says “has been the root of enhancing Suntory Whisky quality through new technology development.” Suntory will also start the traditional process of floor malting at both Yamazaki and Hakushu, while Hakushu will also introduce a process to cultivate yeast. Both distilleries will also “refresh their facilities to elevate the visitor experience,” and will reopen this fall.

Yamazaki and Hibiki are Suntory’s most sought-after whiskies, while its Toki label is more for cocktails and everyday drinking. Yamazaki 55 year old commanded some of the highest auction prices among all whiskies last year. Recent Suntory releases have also included high-end entries like the limited-edition Yamazaki Tsukuriwake Selection ($450-$620/bottle) and Hibiki Blossom Harmony ($160).

This year marks the 100^th anniversary of whisky making at Suntory, whose founder Shinjiro Torii opened Yamazaki Distillery in 1923.