The House of Suntory and Lotte Duty Free unveil 2024 Tsukuriwake Series at Singapore Changi
The House of Suntory – the founding house of Japanese whisky – has partnered with Changi Airport Group (CAG) and Lotte Duty Free Singapore to present the Tsukuriwake Selection 2024 Limited Edition range at Singapore Changi Airport.
This world-first airport activation is showcasing four exceptional single malts from the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries, alongside the inaugural global travel retail exclusive Yamazaki and Hakushu Kogei Collection (2024 Japanese Kimono Edition), plus other House of Suntory craft spirits such as Roku Gin, Haku Vodka, Toki and Chita. The event went live on July 16 in Changi’s Terminal 1 Departure/Transit Zone, and will run until August 25.
Following last year’s centennial celebration of pioneering Japanese whisky, The House of Suntory continues to push the boundaries of the category with its 2024 Tsukuriwake Series, comprising Yamazaki Golden Promise, Yamazaki Islay Peated Malt, Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt, and Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara.
The unique art of Tsukuriwake translates as ‘artisanship through a diversity of making’. Accordingly, each expression spotlights different elements of Japanese whisky artistry. The Tsukuriwake approach transcends mere diversification of cask maturation, incorporating whisky-making elements such as ingredient selection, peat and cask choice. It is driven by the core values of wa (harmony with Japanese nature), monozukuri (elevated Japanese craftsmanship), and omotenashi (the enjoyment of an authentic Japanese cultural experience).
Ashish Gandham, Suntory Global Spirits Managing Director Global Travel Retail, said, “We are renowned worldwide for the innovation and artistry of our prestige spirits – and this exceptional series raises the bar once again.
“The 2024 Tsukuriwake Collection is the perfect showcase for the diversity of elements that go into the making of Yamazaki and Hakushu whiskies, which are sought after globally by discerning travelers. We are delighted to partner with Lotte Duty Free Singapore and Changi Airport Group for the global travel retail introduction of these four remarkable expressions, which epitomize the quality and craftsmanship that imbues our entire portfolio.”
The four Tsukuriwake 2024 expressions
Yamazaki Golden Promise (RRSP US$520): A homage to a bygone era, Yamazaki Golden Promise is crafted from golden promise barley, a standout grain cultivated in Scotland during the 1960s. Distilled in Japan since 2009 and aged in American Oak casks, this expression unfolds a maltier, richer profile of Yamazaki. Its palate is a journey through vibrant notes of orange marmalade, lush custard, and a sweet, lingering finish, offering a deep and rounded flavor that enhances the maturity of Yamazaki 12 Year Old.
Yamazaki Islay Peated Malt (RRSP US$520): Embodied with the distinctive essence of Islay peat, this malt presents a softer and sweeter mouthfeel than Scotland’s mainland peat. The meticulous water and maturation process at Yamazaki results in a balanced sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky undertones. Each sip reveals a harmonious blend of smooth brown sugar, hints of bitter orange citrus, and a warm, smoky finish, adding complexity to the enduring legacy of Yamazaki.
Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara (RRSP US$1,800): Celebrating The House of Suntory’s mastery of Mizunara oak, this limited-edition label of Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara delves into the intricate depths of this complex wood. Known for its signature spiciness and incense-like sandalwood and aloe wood flavors, Mizunara imparts a profoundly layered profile to the whisky. The long maturation period unveils subtly spiced orange notes, culminating in a lingering finish with delicate hints of clove and dried coconut.
Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt (RRSP US$1,400): An ode to the refined artistry of Hakushu, this peated malt offers an elegant smokiness that evokes the tranquility of a serene forest. The extended maturation in Hakushu’s pristine and pure water reveals a distinct smokiness interwoven with spicy, peppery notes. As the flavors deepen, they unveil herbaceous minerals and ripe apple undertones, creating a complex yet refreshing quality that embodies the essence of Hakushu’s innovative spirit.
Bringing the portfolio to life
Light, airy and inviting, the Singapore Changi activation embodies the House of Suntory’s signature aesthetic. The multi-sensorial pop-up incorporates a selection of experiential merchandising displays, interactive elements, and different discovery stations, to bring The House of Suntory portfolio to life for travelers.
Highlights include a central display case containing the Chiso kimono pattern that inspired the 2024 Kogei Collection (Japanese Kimono Edition). There are also dedicated stations explaining the essence of Tsukuriwake; key details of the new Tsukuriwake 2024 Collection; and the uniqueness of the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries.
Passengers are invited to discover the tasting notes from the Kogei Collection and other key spirits, through nosing elements and sampling opportunities at the activation’s Tasting Bar. Finally, at the Art of Gifting station, dependent on spend, travelers can receive a selection of upscale GWPs, including a decorated paper gift bag, branded coasters, and limited-edition lapel pins.
“We are excited to unveil this House of Suntory flagship activation at Changi Airport Terminal 1, in partnership with Suntory Global Spirits and Lotte Duty Free Singapore,” commented Chandra Mahtani, CAG Head of Airside Concessions. “Not only does this immersive experience invite visitors to better appreciate the story behind the crafting of each spirit, but it presents a unique opportunity to purchase limited-edition bottles, complemented by bespoke gifting options.”
Jeff Jeong Soongy, Lotte Duty Free Singapore Managing Director, added, “Lotte’s customers are always looking for innovation, and we know this new collection will have huge appeal, fueled by the rise in demand for high-end Japanese whisky. We are pleased and proud to collaborate once again with Suntory Global Spirts and CAG, to create another compelling Changi-first activation to highlight the launch of these very special single malts.”