Japan and Ireland may be a world apart, but we sure have a lot in common, particularly when it comes to a sense of hospitality.

In Japan, it is ‘omotenashi‘, the concept of hospitality and a welcoming spirit. Here, of course, we are the land of “Céad Míle Fáilte,” a hundred thousand welcomes. We share an appreciation for looking after one another and a mindfulness and reverence for the care and craftsmanship of others, especially when it comes to our spirits.

In Japan and Ireland, whiskey makers share the same passion and meticulous attention to detail in their craft. The distilling, maturing, and perfecting of the spirit is a time-honoured and almost sacred tradition in both cultures. The craftsmanship and heritage are palpable; you can practically taste them in every glass of Suntory’s products. Known as the Founding House of Japanese Whisky, Suntory is famous for their award-winning, world-class whiskies, but they also offer exceptional gin and vodka. For those eager to experience these divine nectars or simply enjoy a taste of Japanese culture here at home, The House of Suntory is bringing you the chance.

The House of Suntory

The House of Suntory is a revered name in the world of spirits. It’s an iconic brand worldwide, but it holds a particularly poignant position in Japanese society. The brand was founded in 1899 by Shinjiro Torii in Osaka. Back then, they specialised in imported wines, but a pioneering foray into whiskey-making came in 1923 when Torii set up his country’s first-ever malt distillery, Yamazaki, in Kyoto.

The brand maintains a harmonious balance of innovation and traditional values to this day and it’s presence is felt. It’s more than just a beverage. Having spent considerable time in Japan, I can attest to the quintessential nature of the brand. From chilled cans enjoyed riverside to highballs in the izakaya with fried foods and spirited conversations with friends, to the highest-class bars, served neat or over perfectly hand-sculpted ice cubes, Suntory is a constant.

A Night to Remember

The House of Suntory is bringing this experience to us lucky ducks here in Dublin with a magnificent night of food and drink. On August 9th, East meets West in show-stopping fashion at this event. Harry Street’s purveyors of fine wines and spirits, The Corkscrew, will be our home for the evening. It is the perfect venue for the festivities as it’s a veritable shrine to connoisseurship of spirits.

It’s not just about having a drink and a nosh; guests will also learn about the distilling process and the history of the products. With traditional taiko drums and a shodo (Japanese calligraphy) artist onsite the atmosphere will be immaculate and a true slice of Japanese hospitality and tradition.

The spotlight on the night will be on Toki whisky, Roku gin, and Haku vodka. Each of these beauties will be used to create dynamite cocktails paired perfectly with Japanese-inspired dishes. Attendees will experience how adaptable these tipples are. In Japanese, we would say nomiyasui, meaning easy to drink – they will go down a treat. But, as is the drinking culture in Japan, they are not to be rushed. In Japan, an evening of drinks is enjoyed over long periods, paired with snacks or small dishes shared at the table. When a master has spent years refining and perfecting a product, the least we can do is take our time to savour and revere it. Remember ‘omotenashi‘.

It’s set to be a immersive evening that will have everyone feeling like they’re in the heart of downtown Kyoto during the Gion Matsuri. With all the flavours, sounds, and sights of a traditional Japanese celebration with an Irish twist, it’s not one to miss out on.

This event is for 18+ only you can get your tickets here. 

Please drink responsibly.

Kanpai (cheers)!