This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Japanese whisky manufacturer House of Suntory, and to celebrate, the brand has teamed up with actors Keanu Reeves and Sofia Coppola on a new advertising campaign.
Suntory is a revered name in the world of spirits, known for its unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and the pursuit of perfection. With a rich history spanning just over a century, Suntory has cemented its place as one of Japan's most iconic and respected whisky distilleries. Renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, Suntory whiskies are crafted using traditional Japanese techniques combined with a deep respect for nature and the elements. From their delicate and floral expressions to the rich and smoky delights, Suntory whiskies showcase a harmonious balance of flavours that captivate the senses. Suntory's legacy extends beyond whisky, with the distillery also excelling in other spirits like Japanese gin and fine Japanese whisky blends. With each sip of a Suntory creation, one embarks on a journey of elegance, artistry, and the timeless spirit of Japan. Explore the full history of Japanese whisky.
Hence it is befitting that for its 100th anniversary, Suntory partners with the best. Keanu Reeves. The Suntory Anniversary Tribute is a little video that explains the history of the Japanese whisky producer and was made by Coppola, the filmmaker of the Tokyo-based movie Lost in Translation.
Reeves, a Canadian actor who previously starred in a 1992 Suntory Reserve commercial, is featured in the video.
Reeves will appear in a series of Roman Coppola's (Sofia Coppola's brother) short documentaries titled "The Nature and Spirit of Japan" later this summer.
“I’m honoured to partner with Suntory Whisky again 30 years after our Suntory Reserve campaign. I’m a huge fan of Suntory Whisky, so it’s very special to collaborate in honour of this milestone anniversary. My admiration for the whisky goes beyond tasting the whisky. It is the elevated Japanese craftsmanship and attention to every detail that makes Suntory Whisky so special. As an actor honing and perfecting my own craft, sharing this process in a docuseries is a thrill.” ~ Actor Keanu Reeves
The series will look at Japanese craftsmanship (monozukuri), the Japanese hospitality tradition (omotenashi), and the concept of "wa," or the harmony of nature in Japan, as they relate to whisky culture.
“As the pioneer of Japanese whisky, the House of Suntory played a significant role in shaping culture and leading craftsmanship in Japan over the last century. To mark this historic milestone, partnering with Sofia and Keanu, who are Suntory Whisky fans, makes perfect sense. From our fifth-generation chief blender Shinji Fukuyo’s striking blends to Sofia and Keanu’s unique cinematic creations, this commemoration has surpassed all expectations to celebrate our iconic Japanese whiskies.” ~ Jon Potter, managing director of House of Suntory
Suntory will also release several limited edition whiskies to mark its centenary this year.
The Keanu Reeves - Suntory Commercial
About Suntory
Suntory is a renowned Japanese company with a diverse portfolio that includes alcoholic beverages, non-alcoholic beverages, and other consumer products. Founded in 1899 by Shinjiro Torii, Suntory has become a household name in Japan and gained international recognition for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
One of Suntory's most notable achievements is its excellence in whisky production. The company has a deep-rooted history in whisky-making, and its distilleries, such as Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita, are known for producing exceptional whiskies. Suntory's approach to whisky involves combining traditional Scottish techniques with a distinct Japanese sensibility, resulting in expressions that showcase elegance, complexity, and a unique flavour profile.
Beyond whisky, Suntory has expanded its expertise to other spirits, including gin and vodka. The company's Roku Gin, crafted with six traditional Japanese botanicals, has gained popularity for its balance of flavours and attention to detail. Suntory's vodka offerings, such as Haku Vodka, are crafted using pristine water and the finest ingredients, delivering a smooth and refined drinking experience.
Suntory's commitment to quality extends to its non-alcoholic beverage division as well. The company produces a wide range of soft drinks, teas, and health beverages, focusing on natural ingredients and innovative flavour combinations. Suntory has introduced iconic brands like BOSS Coffee and Orangina, becoming a prominent player in the global beverage industry.
In addition to beverages, Suntory has diverse business interests, including food products, health supplements, and even an amusement park. The company's commitment to sustainability is also evident in its efforts to reduce environmental impact and promote responsible practices throughout its operations.
Suntory's legacy is built on a foundation of craftsmanship, innovation, and a dedication to providing exceptional experiences to consumers worldwide. With their unwavering commitment to quality and their ability to blend tradition with innovation, Suntory continues to shape the landscape of the beverage industry and inspire countless enthusiasts around the globe.
