Beam Suntory launches four whisky expressions in India

US-based premium spirits company Beam Suntory has launched four whisky expressions in the Indian market, with focus on the introduction of Oaksmith Indian whisky.

Additionally, the launch of the Japanese whiskies Yamazaki Distiller’s Reserve and Hibiki Japanese Harmony, Roku Japanese Craft Gin from The House of Suntory is in line with the company’s target to reach a revenue target of $1bn by 2030.

Created by Shinji Fukuyo Suntory’s chief blender, Oaksmith Indian whisky is a blend of Scotch Malt whiskies and American Bourbons, produced using traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Fukuyo said: “My travels across the world have helped me understand and appreciate sophisticated flavour profiles. Blending spirits is about creating a harmonious flavour by weaving culture and tradition along with one’s own form of self-expression.

“This is an art in itself and I am very grateful that people globally have appreciated the quality and artistry of Hibiki and Yamazaki and hopefully now, Oaksmith.”

House of Suntory brands will be distributed across all major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and Bangalore, noted the company.

Beam Suntory India managing director Neeraj Kumar said: “We are thrilled by the appreciation that Hibiki and Yamazaki have received from consumers worldwide, and their popularity among spirits aficionados in India.

“The growing premiumisation of the Indian market and the appreciation for finely crafted spirits made this the right time to launch these brands, along with Roku gin. Indians today are well-travelled and exposed to global trends, which inspired the creation of Oaksmith for whisky lovers in India.”