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Japanese spirit firm Suntory Spirits has announced that it is due to complete the renewal of its Hakushu Distillery in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, next month.

The renovations had been underway over the last year, with the aim to boost quality craftmanship and elevate visitor experience at the distillery.

To elevate craftsmanship, Suntory has introduced floor malting and yeast cultivation processes at the Hakushu distillery, reinforcing its commitment to quality ingredients and ‘Tsukurikomi’ – the art of creating new-make (unaged) whisky.

To enrich the visitor experience, Suntory has constructed a 'bird bridge' connecting the visitor centre to the bird sanctuary, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings of the Hakushu Distillery. Additionally, the new Hakushu Terrace restaurant, featuring dishes made with local ingredients, will open on 1 September, followed by a new distillery tour launching on 20 September.

A Suntory spokesperson told FoodBev: "As a distillery that embodies Suntory Group’s corporate philosophy 'To inspire the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature,' Hakushu Distillery continues to produce high-quality Suntory whisky for the future whilst coexisting with nature. This renewal will enable visitors to better experience the uniqueness of Hakushu, from its dedication to quality craftsmanship to coexistence with the surrounding rich natural environment."

Also known as the ‘Mountain Forest Distillery,’ the site is surrounded by a green valley at the foot of Mount Kaikomagatake in the Japanese Southern Alps. Hakushu Distillery crafts a distinctive whisky due to its unique natural environment – such as water and climate – but also because of its different facilities, including washbacks and pot stills.

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