From a single green liqueur that caught American bartenders’ attention in 1971 to a global portfolio showcasing Japan’s seasonal essence – Suntory Osaka & Spirits Crafts Distillery liqueur legacy spans generations.
When US delegates spotted a vibrantly green melon liqueur at the 1971 IBA Cocktail Championship in Tokyo, they couldn’t have predicted they were witnessing the birth of a global phenomenon. That liqueur became MIDORI, launched internationally in 1978 and now a staple in bars worldwide. Today, Suntory Osaka & Spirits Crafts Distillery continues that pioneering spirit with their IWSC 2025 Liqueur Producer Trophy win.
Suntory’s approach to liqueur-making reflects Japan’s cultural reverence for seasonality and place. Their Kanade Japanese Liqueur range – launched globally in 2025 after years of development – captures Japanese terroir through Matcha, Sakura, Yuzu and White Peach expressions.
The company’s commitment extends beyond technique to infrastructure. Their investment in the new Suntory Osaka Spirits & Liqueurs Craft Distillery has expanded production whilst enabling more precise extraction of Japanese ingredients.
What distinguishes Suntory is its collaborative approach with bartenders worldwide. Their producers travel globally during development, listening to professional needs and adapting craft accordingly. The results speak clearly – Kanade earned IWSC Gold medals across the range, with Outstanding recognition for their Cherry Blossom and Matcha expressions.
For over 75 years, Suntory has evolved Japanese liqueur-making from domestic tradition to global innovation. Their trophy recognises a philosophy that treats each flavour as “an expression of Japanese terroir and tradition,” sharing Japan’s seasonal beauty one sip at a time.
AloJapan.com