#Japan #Tokyo #The Glenlivet #Keio Plaza Hotel #whisky tasting

Experience The Glenlivet: A Unique Whisky Event in Tokyo

On June 22, 2025, the Keio Plaza Hotel in Tokyo will host a special event dedicated to the world-renowned whisky, The Glenlivet. Celebrated as 'the original single malt', this whisky has a rich heritage, and attendees will have the chance to taste eight different varieties while enjoying expertly paired dishes.

The event will feature a seminar led by Daiki Nakamura, a seasoned bartender who was appointed the Scotch whisky brand ambassador in April 2025. He has earned numerous accolades in international cocktail competitions and brings a wealth of experience to the table. Participants will gather in the hotel's main bar, Brian, known for its rich history and stunning brick interior imported from Scotland, to explore The Glenlivet's intriguing story and exceptional range of flavours.

A Historic Legacy: The Glenlivet

The Glenlivet Distillery, established in 1824 in the Speyside region of Scotland, was the first legally licensed distillery, breaking from the tradition of illicit whisky production of the 17th century. The distillery's founder, George Smith, fought against imitators to protect his brand's reputation, resulting in the iconic name 'The Glenlivet', which remains synonymous with quality and authenticity.

The Glenlivet's production process utilizes water sourced from the distillery’s own spring, combined with meticulous barrel selections, to yield remarkable smoothness and complexity. The distillery's history and craftsmanship have made it a beloved choice for whisky enthusiasts around the world.

The Event Details

Learning from an Expert

During the seminar, Nakamura will delve into the historical context that gave rise to The Glenlivet and its influence as 'the beginning of all single malts'. An expert on whisky production, he will walk attendees through the various production methods and taste profiles that define The Glenlivet brand.

Tasting Experience

Participants will have the opportunity to sample five signature variations of The Glenlivet, including the 12-Year-Old, 15-Year-Old, 18-Year-Old, 25-Year-Old, along with a special 'secret bottle'. The tasting menu will also include the Caribbean Reserve and a limited-edition 200th Anniversary bottle. Each whisky will be paired with dishes crafted by Masayuki Tozawa, the hotel's head chef, ensuring a perfect culinary complement to the whiskies.

Atmosphere of Brian Bar

The event takes place in Brian, a sophisticated bar located on the second floor of the hotel's south wing. With its modern Japanese aesthetic and historical brick decor, the bar offers an intimate environment ideal for whisky appreciation. Bar Manager Takafumi Ko-washi, who has been with Keio Plaza Hotel since 2004, will welcome guests and provide insights into the setting and the whiskies.

Making Reservations

The event is scheduled from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, with a reservation fee of ¥15,000, inclusive of service charges and taxes. Reservations open on May 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with a limited seating capacity of 30 attendees. Individuals interested in exploring the world of whisky and gaining deeper knowledge about The Glenlivet are encouraged to secure their places early through the hotel’s website.

Contact Information

For inquiries, contact the restaurant reservation desk at (03) 5322-8151, open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Additional information and ticket reservations can be found on the official event page: The Glenlivet Event.

This event promises to be an enlightening and enjoyable experience for both whisky aficionados and those newly interested in exploring the complexities of single malt whisky. Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of The Glenlivet’s history and flavours while enjoying tantalizing culinary pairings and the ambiance of Keio Plaza Hotel.

About Keio Plaza Hotel

Founded in 1971, the Keio Plaza Hotel is a landmark in Shinjuku, Tokyo, offering premier hospitality and a host of amenities for its guests. Visit our website for more details: Keio Plaza Hotel.