Whisky Names Explained: Suntory Toki

Anyone who delves a bit into Japanese whisky quickly comes across the brand Suntory, one of the pioneers of the Japanese whisky industry. One of its most accessible and notable expressions is Suntory Toki. But what does that name actually mean? And how does it reflect the character of the whisky? Welcome to a new Whisky Names Explained.

FAQ

In Japanese, Toki literally means time. Although it seems like a simple word, it carries deeper significance. In Japanese culture, time is not only seen as something that passes but as a flowing whole of moments, connections, and traditions that blend into one another. With the name Toki, Suntory refers to the merging of past, present, and future.

With that said, the name can be seen as a subtle nod to the blending tradition passed down from generation to generation.

Toki whisky is a fresh, modern whisky. The brand never gives you a heavy or smoky dram. No, Toki is a light, fresh blend that fits very well with today's way of drinking. For instance, you can use this divine drink in a beautiful cocktail, like a highball with sparkling water and ice. This is something you often see in Asian culture.

Suntory Toki is a blended whisky made up of components from three different Suntory distilleries: Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita. The whisky boasts a notably high proportion of grain whisky from Chita and lightly peated malt from Hakushu, which contributes to its fresh, almost grassy character. There’s also some Yamazaki in the blend, adding hints of ripe fruit and depth.

With a clear profile of green apple, basil, mint, and white grape, Toki is an ideal starting point for anyone wanting to explore Japanese whisky. Often, whisky drinkers who have some experience switch to Japanese whiskies with deeper flavor profiles after trying Toki.