Beam Suntory unveils exclusive whisky for Indian market
Beam Suntory unveils exclusive whisky for Indian market

Beam Suntory, an international premium spirits company, has introduced a range of four premium spirits in India. This move signals its commitment and strategy to grow in India, in line with its ambition to reach $1 billion in revenue by 2030.

Beam Suntory has introduced an India specific whisky, Oaksmith, created by world-renowned blender Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender, Suntory, using traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Oaksmith is blended with the finest Scotch Malt whiskies and American Bourbons to make a whisky unique and authentic to Indian taste.

Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender at Suntory, stated, “While making this blend, I wanted to ensure that it resonates specifically well with the Indian audience while being truly international in its spirit. I travelled across the country to understand the different food cultures and flavours. Eventually what I saw, heard and tasted, helped me explore a variety of flavour profiles and finalize this harmonious blend which has the best of America, Scotland and Japanese craftsmanship. I am extremely proud as the final product completely reimagines what the future of Indian whisky can be.” 

Additionally, the iconic Japanese whiskies Yamazaki Distiller’s Reserve and Hibiki Japanese Harmony, along with Roku Japanese Craft gin have also been introduced from The House of Suntory portfolio. 

Neeraj Kumar, Managing Director of Beam Suntory India, 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.”

Availability of The House of Suntory brands

The House of Suntory brands have been launched across all major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and Bangalore.

While Yamazaki Distiller’s Reserve will be available in the range of Rs 10,900 to Rs 20,000 across different states, Hibiki Japanese Harmony for Rs 10,900 to Rs 20,000 and Roku gin for Rs 5,500 to Rs 7,100.

“Indians today are well-travelled and exposed to global trends, which inspired the creation of Oaksmith for whisky lovers in India. The beautiful blend incorporates years of tradition that the Beam Suntory family upholds while showcasing Shinji-san’s award-winning blending capabilities making it a whisky that, quite simply, no one else could possibly create,” Kumar added.

Indian spirits market

As per data from consumer research firm GlobalData, the Indian spirits market was valued at Rs 1.84 trillion in 2016, with Whisky accounting for over 60% of this figure and single malts make up a small part of the same.

According to another report, the 'India Whisky Market Outlook 2023', the Indian whisky market has witnessed growth with CAGR of more than 7% from FY 2010-11 to FY 2016-17.

George Kumekawa, Representative, The House of Suntory, said, “In recent years, we have noticed a strong trend among Indians to opt for premium and craft gin as their spirit of choice as it has a softer flavour profile which is easier on the throat and refreshing in its appeal - perfect for brunches and refreshment occasions. With the introduction of Roku gin in India, we are looking to further build the market for both gin as well as craft spirits to help enthusiasts discover new tastes and experiences.”

 
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