#Japan #Tokyo #Dewar's #Stephanie MacLeod #Hideo Itoh

Celebrating Personal Narratives with Dewar’s

On October 16, 2025, Dewar’s held a captivating opening event for its latest public experience, "Dewar’s HERE’S TO THE STORY – A Journey to Find Your Unique Drink", at Roppongi Hills’ Rooftop Plaza. This gathering, which will run from October 16 to 19, showcases Dewar's renewed brand concept, inviting participants to explore personalized beverage experiences that resonate with their own stories.

Bacardi Japan, led by Toshinori Azuma, imports Dewar’s, a revered Scotch whisky brand, while Sapporo Breweries, headed by Hiroshi Tokimatsu, serves as its distributor. The opening night was marked by the presence of renowned actor Hideo Itoh and Debutante Master Blender, Stephanie MacLeod, in a captivating talk session. MacLeod, renowned for being the first female Master Blender at Dewar’s, shared her insights about the new brand philosophy, "HERE’S TO THE STORY," emphasizing the importance of storytelling in every sip of whisky.

The event commenced with warm greetings from the hosts followed by MacLeod's illuminating address. She elaborated on the creation of Dewar’s 12-year-old blend and the dedication towards crafting each drop with precision and care. After her speech, Itoh joined the stage, invoking the Gaelic toast "Slàinte!" as they raised their glasses filled with refreshing Dewar’s 12-year highball, initiating the evening’s dialogue.

Drawing from his recent visit to Scotland, Itoh recounted his experience at a distillery, reminiscing about the unique flavors he discovered, particularly enjoying a whisky-infused water made with local spring water. He described it as a rich experience, underlining how travel brings one closer to exceptional whisky crafted from its native environment. He expressed how meeting MacLeod at the distillery was memorable, noting her passionate dedication to her craft and blending process.

The event also provided guests with a chance to engage in innovative pop-up experiences across three themed areas. Itoh chose the "Calm: The Sea Breeze and Light" zone, where he enjoyed an original flavored highball featuring Dewar’s 12, set against the serene backdrop of Setouchi lemons and herbs. "The concept resonated with me; feeling the light and breeze is soothing. This highball embodies the refreshing essence of Setouchi while indulging in Tokyo’s vibrant atmosphere. The clear glass perfectly showcases the cocktail's color and effervescence," he remarked with a smile.

At the event's closure, Itoh shared his sentiments about travel and discovery. “Travel is always filled with new insights. Enjoying a Dewar’s drink at the end of the day is a luxurious way to reflect on the discoveries of ‘today’s journey’. I encourage everyone to savor Dewar’s and relish in those aftertastes,” he stated. MacLeod echoed his thoughts, emphasizing travel not only broadens one’s perspective but also one’s heart. “I am currently traveling in Japan, and each experience expands my world in different ways. Through Dewar’s, I wish to share this feeling with more people.” The evening concluded, encapsulating the essence of Dewar’s commitment to storytelling and personal exploration through whisky.

Event Venue and Atmosphere

The event venue at Roppongi Hills’ Rooftop Plaza provided a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the journey of flavor and storytelling. The combination of engaging conversation, exquisite highball tastings, and festive ambiance unveiled Dewar's dedication to creating meaningful connections through whisky.

About the Speakers

Hideo Itoh

Hideo Itoh, born on August 3, 1975, in Gifu Prefecture, is an acclaimed actor who began his career in 1997 with the drama "Dessin". His breakout role came in 2004 with the blockbuster film “Umizaru,” leading to its successful series adaptation. In 2015, he garnered awards for his performance in “WOOD JOB!”, showcasing his versatility in both domestic and international productions, including roles in “TOKYO VICE” and the upcoming Netflix series “IKUSAGAMI.”

Stephanie MacLeod

Stephanie MacLeod, the trailblazer and first female Master Blender of Dewar’s, has made her mark in an industry where female master blenders are a rarity. Her elegant expressions of flavor have gained international acclaim, having been awarded the title of Master Blender of the Year for six consecutive years from 2019 through 2024 at the International Whisky Competition.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Dewar's HERE’S TO THE STORY – A Journey to Find Your Unique Drink
• - Dates:

- October 16 (Thursday): 17:30 - 22:00
- October 17 (Friday): 11:00 - 22:00
- October 18 (Saturday): 11:00 - 22:00
- October 19 (Sunday): 11:00 - 22:00

• - Location: Roppongi Hills Rooftop Plaza
• - Entry Fee: 1,000 yen (includes one highball, one flavored highball, and one snack)
• - Pre-purchase Tickets: Available at Dewar's Ticket Site.

Experience Dewar’s commitment to storytelling through whisky and explore your unique flavors at this enchanting event!