Experience the Essence of Old and New Japan as Renowned Bartender Shingo Gokan Collaborates with Toki Suntory Whisky and The Leela Palace in Delhi and Bengaluru
17.05.2024 - 12:07:20
to host exclusive masterclasses followed by an evening celebrating the old and new Japan in Delhi and Bengaluru. This event was organized in association with The Leela, featuring Toki™ Suntory Whisky from the iconic portfolio of The House of Suntory.
Shingo Gokan, founder of The SG Group and SG Shochu brand, stands as one of the most influential mixologists of his generation, boasting over a decade of expertise in pioneering the bar landscape. His extraordinary talent has earned him global recognition, including the prestigious Roku Industry Icon title in 2021. Additionally, he has consistently been featured in Bar World’s 100 most influential list by Drinks International. Recognized globally for his innovative cocktail creations, Shingo Gokan's collaboration with Toki™ Suntory Whisky promises an unparalleled experience for whisky enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados alike.
Toki™ is a blended whisky inspired by Japan’s culture, heritage, and future-forward outlook. It is a fusion of three storied brands from Suntory's portfolio - Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita - creating a blend that excites whisky enthusiasts and beginners alike. Representing the best of old and new, Toki™ Suntory Whisky blends the rich legacy of The House of Suntory with Japan’s cultural traditions and modern spirit, resulting in a groundbreaking and timeless whisky.
Having operated award-winning bars across the world, Shingo Gokan conducted masterclasses on establishing a successful bar business. With extensive experience in the industry, Shingo San is widely regarded as one of the most sought-after mentors for upcoming bartenders.
The masterclasses in Delhi and Bengaluru were followed by an evening celebrating One Night in Toki-O!, a concept that takes the audiences to the streets of Tokyo, a modern version of Japan where the juxtaposition of old and new sparks creative reinvigoration. A vivid world that is dynamic, playful, and whimsical. A cultural enrichment through the discovery of a new piece of Japan that is exciting, engaging and fun.
Highlighting the collaboration, Rohan Jelkie, Brand Advocacy Head, Suntory Global Spirits said, "We are thrilled to welcome Shingo Gokan to India for these exclusive masterclasses. His expertise and passion for mixology perfectly complement the rich heritage and innovative spirit of Toki™ Suntory Whisky. Together, we are poised to create an unforgettable experience, bringing forth the best of innovation and craftsmanship for our discerning audience.”
Emphasizing on the association, a spokesperson from The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts added, "We are delighted to welcome guests to The Leela Palace New Delhi and The Leela Palace Bengaluru for Shingo Gokan's exclusive masterclasses. This extraordinary collaboration promises an unparalleled experience, where whisky enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados indulge in the artistry of Japanese mixology and craftsmanship. We aim to elevate the senses and showcase the finest in discerning experiences at our renowned venues - The Library Bar in New Delhi and ZLB23 in Bengaluru."
Speaking about his India visit, Shingo Gokan added, "I am honored to collaborate with Toki™ Suntory Whisky to bring the essence of Japanese craftsmanship to India through these exclusive masterclasses. Toki™ represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, and I am excited to share my passion for Japanese whisky and the intricate techniques of bartending with enthusiasts in India. Together, we embark on a journey of discovery, celebrating the timeless elegance and meticulous attention to detail that define Japanese spirits and culture."
The exclusive masterclasses highlighting Japanese mixology and craftsmanship with Shingo Gokan took place on 11th April at The Library Bar in The Leela Palace New Delhi and 13th April at ZLB23 in The Leela Palace Bengaluru.
Shingo Gokan, founder of The SG Group and SG Shochu brand, stands as one of the most influential mixologists of his generation, boasting over a decade of expertise in pioneering the bar landscape. His extraordinary talent has earned him global recognition, including the prestigious Roku Industry Icon title in 2021. Additionally, he has consistently been featured in Bar World’s 100 most influential list by Drinks International. Recognized globally for his innovative cocktail creations, Shingo Gokan's collaboration with Toki™ Suntory Whisky promises an unparalleled experience for whisky enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados alike.
Toki™ is a blended whisky inspired by Japan’s culture, heritage, and future-forward outlook. It is a fusion of three storied brands from Suntory's portfolio - Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita - creating a blend that excites whisky enthusiasts and beginners alike. Representing the best of old and new, Toki™ Suntory Whisky blends the rich legacy of The House of Suntory with Japan’s cultural traditions and modern spirit, resulting in a groundbreaking and timeless whisky.
Having operated award-winning bars across the world, Shingo Gokan conducted masterclasses on establishing a successful bar business. With extensive experience in the industry, Shingo San is widely regarded as one of the most sought-after mentors for upcoming bartenders.
The masterclasses in Delhi and Bengaluru were followed by an evening celebrating One Night in Toki-O!, a concept that takes the audiences to the streets of Tokyo, a modern version of Japan where the juxtaposition of old and new sparks creative reinvigoration. A vivid world that is dynamic, playful, and whimsical. A cultural enrichment through the discovery of a new piece of Japan that is exciting, engaging and fun.
Highlighting the collaboration, Rohan Jelkie, Brand Advocacy Head, Suntory Global Spirits said, "We are thrilled to welcome Shingo Gokan to India for these exclusive masterclasses. His expertise and passion for mixology perfectly complement the rich heritage and innovative spirit of Toki™ Suntory Whisky. Together, we are poised to create an unforgettable experience, bringing forth the best of innovation and craftsmanship for our discerning audience.”
Emphasizing on the association, a spokesperson from The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts added, "We are delighted to welcome guests to The Leela Palace New Delhi and The Leela Palace Bengaluru for Shingo Gokan's exclusive masterclasses. This extraordinary collaboration promises an unparalleled experience, where whisky enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados indulge in the artistry of Japanese mixology and craftsmanship. We aim to elevate the senses and showcase the finest in discerning experiences at our renowned venues - The Library Bar in New Delhi and ZLB23 in Bengaluru."
Speaking about his India visit, Shingo Gokan added, "I am honored to collaborate with Toki™ Suntory Whisky to bring the essence of Japanese craftsmanship to India through these exclusive masterclasses. Toki™ represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, and I am excited to share my passion for Japanese whisky and the intricate techniques of bartending with enthusiasts in India. Together, we embark on a journey of discovery, celebrating the timeless elegance and meticulous attention to detail that define Japanese spirits and culture."
The exclusive masterclasses highlighting Japanese mixology and craftsmanship with Shingo Gokan took place on 11th April at The Library Bar in The Leela Palace New Delhi and 13th April at ZLB23 in The Leela Palace Bengaluru.
About House of Suntory
Since 1923, Suntory has been renowned as the pioneer of Japanese Whisky for its House of Master Blenders and for their Art of Blending. Founder Shinjiro Torii built Japan’s first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki, and the Suntory legacy continued with Torii’s son and Suntory’s second Master Blender, Keizo Saji, who continued to establish distilleries including the Hakushu distillery. As the generations of Suntory’s master blenders carry on, Suntory Whisky remains committed to heritage and innovation. The House of Suntory has been named four-time Distiller of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge in London, UK (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014). Suntory Whiskies are subtle, refined and complex. The portfolio includes two single malt whiskies: Yamazaki—Japan’s number one single malt, multi-layered and profound, and Hakushu—verdant, fresh, and delicately smoky; and two blends: the noble blend, Hibiki—Japan’s most highly awarded blended whisky and Suntory Whisky Toki. The House of Suntory portfolio also offers Roku Japanese Gin and Haku Japanese Vodka. Created from Japanese ingredients by the master artisans at the House of Suntory, Roku Gin and Haku Vodka represent the nature and spirit of Japan. This year, the House of Suntory celebrates one hundred years of whisky innovation—a major milestone not only for the brand’s history, but for Japanese spirits culture as a whole. To mark this anniversary, the House of Suntory will be rolling out its centennial campaign throughout 2023.
About Toki™ Suntory Whisky
Toki™, meaning ‘time’, is a concept that is deeply-woven into the Japanese way of life - a concept rich in meaning the world over, yet especially in Japan, where regard for convention and re-evaluation starts an amazing inventive vitality. The House of Suntory’s fourth Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo was inspired to create a blend that is both groundbreaking and timeless, leading him to take a fresh approach with Toki™. By bringing the grain component of the blend from the Chita distillery, where the heavy-type grain spirit is distilled only twice on column stills, and is vanilla-rich with a sweet undertone in its unblended state. Shinji-san sourced the malt component from the Hakushu distillery, which produces light, fruity malt similar to many Speyside distilleries. The unique pairing of Hakushu American White Oak Cask malt spirit with Chita heavy-type grain spirit overturns the traditional hierarchy between malt and grain. These seemingly dissimilar but deeply accordant spirits, together with select Yamazaki malts for additional depth and complexity give rise to the exquisite, silky taste, distinctive character and bold innovation of the blended Toki™ Suntory Whisky.
About Shingo Gokan
Shingo Gokan is a bar industry legend. The 15th most Influential Bar Personality in the world as per Drinks International’s Bar World 100, he runs an empire of F&B establishments across the globe. Founder and representative of SG Group, he began his bartending journey in Tokyo but moved to New York in 2006. Having founded SG Group, he opened Speak Low, Shanghai in 2014. Currently, he owns eight distinctive bars and restaurants in China and Japan.
The group holds the record for most awards won by a bar group in the 50 Best lists – 47 to be precise. The group founded a brand of Japanese single distilled craft spirits – SG Shochu and Shingo Gokan has released Kokuto de Lequio in collaboration with Mizuho Shuzo. With seemingly endless accolades, Shingo Gokan isn't just a bartender, but a powerhouse businessman who knows how to run thriving F&B ventures globally.
About The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts
Headquartered in Mumbai, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts is owned by a Brookfield Asset Management-sponsored private real estate fund and operates twelve award-winning properties in major cities and leisure destinations across India. These include the flagship hotel in the capital city of New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Udaipur, Jaipur, Gurugram, East Delhi, Mumbai, Gandhinagar and now Kovalam and Ashtamudi in Kerala. The Leela celebrates each hotel through its unique location, art, culture and cuisine with thoughtful services, celebratory rituals, and immersive experiences. The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts was voted the World’s Best Hotel Brand twice in a row by Travel + Leisure, USA, World’s Best Awards Survey, 2020 and 2021. In 2023, the brand has once again been featured in the top 3 World’s Best Hotel Brands. An epitome of true Indian luxury hospitality, The Leela is committed to providing guests with unforgettable stays in settings that capture the essence of India. The brand has a marketing alliance with US-based Preferred Hotels & Resorts and is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance.
For more information, please visit our website www.theleela.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Since 1923, Suntory has been renowned as the pioneer of Japanese Whisky for its House of Master Blenders and for their Art of Blending. Founder Shinjiro Torii built Japan’s first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki, and the Suntory legacy continued with Torii’s son and Suntory’s second Master Blender, Keizo Saji, who continued to establish distilleries including the Hakushu distillery. As the generations of Suntory’s master blenders carry on, Suntory Whisky remains committed to heritage and innovation. The House of Suntory has been named four-time Distiller of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge in London, UK (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014). Suntory Whiskies are subtle, refined and complex. The portfolio includes two single malt whiskies: Yamazaki—Japan’s number one single malt, multi-layered and profound, and Hakushu—verdant, fresh, and delicately smoky; and two blends: the noble blend, Hibiki—Japan’s most highly awarded blended whisky and Suntory Whisky Toki. The House of Suntory portfolio also offers Roku Japanese Gin and Haku Japanese Vodka. Created from Japanese ingredients by the master artisans at the House of Suntory, Roku Gin and Haku Vodka represent the nature and spirit of Japan. This year, the House of Suntory celebrates one hundred years of whisky innovation—a major milestone not only for the brand’s history, but for Japanese spirits culture as a whole. To mark this anniversary, the House of Suntory will be rolling out its centennial campaign throughout 2023.
About Toki™ Suntory Whisky
Toki™, meaning ‘time’, is a concept that is deeply-woven into the Japanese way of life - a concept rich in meaning the world over, yet especially in Japan, where regard for convention and re-evaluation starts an amazing inventive vitality. The House of Suntory’s fourth Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo was inspired to create a blend that is both groundbreaking and timeless, leading him to take a fresh approach with Toki™. By bringing the grain component of the blend from the Chita distillery, where the heavy-type grain spirit is distilled only twice on column stills, and is vanilla-rich with a sweet undertone in its unblended state. Shinji-san sourced the malt component from the Hakushu distillery, which produces light, fruity malt similar to many Speyside distilleries. The unique pairing of Hakushu American White Oak Cask malt spirit with Chita heavy-type grain spirit overturns the traditional hierarchy between malt and grain. These seemingly dissimilar but deeply accordant spirits, together with select Yamazaki malts for additional depth and complexity give rise to the exquisite, silky taste, distinctive character and bold innovation of the blended Toki™ Suntory Whisky.
About Shingo Gokan
Shingo Gokan is a bar industry legend. The 15th most Influential Bar Personality in the world as per Drinks International’s Bar World 100, he runs an empire of F&B establishments across the globe. Founder and representative of SG Group, he began his bartending journey in Tokyo but moved to New York in 2006. Having founded SG Group, he opened Speak Low, Shanghai in 2014. Currently, he owns eight distinctive bars and restaurants in China and Japan.
The group holds the record for most awards won by a bar group in the 50 Best lists – 47 to be precise. The group founded a brand of Japanese single distilled craft spirits – SG Shochu and Shingo Gokan has released Kokuto de Lequio in collaboration with Mizuho Shuzo. With seemingly endless accolades, Shingo Gokan isn't just a bartender, but a powerhouse businessman who knows how to run thriving F&B ventures globally.
About The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts
Headquartered in Mumbai, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts is owned by a Brookfield Asset Management-sponsored private real estate fund and operates twelve award-winning properties in major cities and leisure destinations across India. These include the flagship hotel in the capital city of New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Udaipur, Jaipur, Gurugram, East Delhi, Mumbai, Gandhinagar and now Kovalam and Ashtamudi in Kerala. The Leela celebrates each hotel through its unique location, art, culture and cuisine with thoughtful services, celebratory rituals, and immersive experiences. The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts was voted the World’s Best Hotel Brand twice in a row by Travel + Leisure, USA, World’s Best Awards Survey, 2020 and 2021. In 2023, the brand has once again been featured in the top 3 World’s Best Hotel Brands. An epitome of true Indian luxury hospitality, The Leela is committed to providing guests with unforgettable stays in settings that capture the essence of India. The brand has a marketing alliance with US-based Preferred Hotels & Resorts and is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance.
For more information, please visit our website www.theleela.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
