Beam Suntory, a global leader in premium spirits, is raising a toast to a groundbreaking achievement in the world of whisky production. In a monumental collaboration with Supercritical Solutions, they have successfully conducted the first-ever trial of hydrogen-powered distillation at the renowned Yamazaki Distillery in Japan.
This pioneering endeavor, known as Project WhiskHy, marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable practices within the spirits industry. Beam Suntory's commitment to environmental stewardship is evident through their Proof Positive sustainability strategy, which aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions across their entire value chain by the year 2040.
The WhiskHy project received substantial support from the UK government, with £2.9 million in funding allocated to explore the feasibility of green hydrogen-based decarbonization technology. This funding, obtained through the Green Distilleries competition, underscores the growing emphasis on innovation and sustainability in the pursuit of a cleaner, greener future.
At the heart of the trial is the utilization of hydrogen as a clean and efficient fuel source for direct-fired distillation. Unlike traditional methods that rely on fossil fuels, this process harnesses the power of hydrogen to heat the stills directly, offering the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 100%.
The trial conducted at the Yamazaki Distillery involved the use of a pilot distillery specifically designed to support innovative research and development. Here, the team employed a pure hydrogen flame to power the distillation process, a testament to their commitment to pushing the boundaries of green innovation.
One of the key advantages of hydrogen-powered distillation is its ability to enhance the quality and depth of the distilled spirit. By leveraging associated Maillard reactions, which occur when amino acids and reducing sugars react under heat, the process can impart unique flavors and characteristics to the whisky.
A portion of the distilled spirit from the trial will undergo maturation at the Glen Garioch distillery in Scotland, where it will be carefully assessed for quality as it matures. This represents a continuation of Beam Suntory's tradition of craftsmanship and excellence in whisky production.
Integral to the success of the WhiskHy project is the development of Supercritical Solutions' proprietary high-pressure electrolyser technology. This innovative technology enables distilleries to produce and store hydrogen on-site, utilizing renewable energy sources to power the process.
Looking ahead, Beam Suntory and Supercritical Solutions are poised to continue their collaboration, driving further advancements in hydrogen fuel technology and sustainability within the spirits industry. With a shared vision of a more sustainable and resilient future, they are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation while maintaining the unparalleled quality and craftsmanship that define their spirits.
In the words of Alistair Longwell, head of distilling and environment at Beam Suntory, "We are thrilled to have achieved this new milestone and look forward to continuing our progress with Supercritical as we pursue a more sustainable, resilient future for our industry." This sentiment is echoed by Matt Bird, CEO of Supercritical, who sees this landmark trial as just the beginning of a journey toward a truly sustainable future.
About Beam Suntory
Beam Suntory is one of the world's leading spirits companies, known for its extensive portfolio of iconic brands and a rich heritage that spans centuries. Formed in 2014 through the merger of Beam Inc. and Suntory Holdings Limited, the company boasts a diverse range of spirits, including whiskey, tequila, vodka, rum, and liqueurs. Beam Suntory's portfolio includes renowned brands such as Jim Beam, Maker's Mark, Knob Creek, Laphroaig, Yamazaki, and Courvoisier, among many others, each with its own unique story and heritage.
With a presence in over 200 countries and territories worldwide, Beam Suntory is committed to delivering exceptional quality and craftsmanship in every bottle. The company's dedication to innovation and tradition is evident in its wide range of products, which cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. From small-batch bourbons to single malt Scotch whiskies, Beam Suntory's brands offer something for every whiskey enthusiast and spirit connoisseur.
Beyond its commitment to quality spirits, Beam Suntory is also dedicated to corporate responsibility and sustainability. The company strives to minimize its environmental footprint and make a positive impact on the communities where it operates through initiatives focused on responsible sourcing, environmental conservation, and community engagement.
Overall, Beam Suntory stands as a global leader in the spirits industry, celebrated for its diverse portfolio of iconic brands, commitment to quality and craftsmanship, and dedication to making a positive impact on the world. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Beam Suntory's spirits offer a taste of tradition and a memorable drinking experience for enthusiasts and consumers around the globe.
