Suntory Tasting + Dinner
presented by Jonathan Armstrong, West Coast Brand Ambassador for House of Suntory
date: Tuesday July 8, 2025
time: 6:30 to 9:30 pm
location: Hatchet Hall [12517 W. Washington Blvd, 90066]
Max Capacity
Advance enrollment is always required and must be 21+ to attend.
Cancellation refunds are given with email notification at least 48 hours prior to start time.
If the event is sold out please email us to be placed on the wait list.

Join us for an extraordinary evening hosted by the Southern California Whiskey Club as we delve into the rich heritage of the Yamazaki Japanese distillery. This exclusive dinner, presented by Jonathan Armstrong, the West Coast Brand Ambassador for House of Suntory, will take place at the charming Hatchet Hall in Culver City, renowned for its exquisite culinary offerings. Prepare for an unforgettable gastronomic adventure as we experience the depth and diversity of Yamazaki's iconic spirits in a side-by-side flight, followed by a curated dinner that celebrates the art of whisky.
Classic Yamazaki Lineup:
1. Yamazaki Puncheon
2. Yamazaki Sherry Cask
3. Yamazaki Mizunara Cask
4. Yamazaki 12 Years Old
5. Yamazaki 18 Years Old
6. 秘密のウイスキー“Secret Whisky”
+ #SecretStash
Event Schedule:
6:30PM Arrival + Welcome Cocktail
7:00 - 7:45PM Tasting
7:45 - 9:15PM Dinner
9:15 - 9:30PM Gifting Farewell
Hatchet Hall Dinner Menu:
House Potato Rolls
Hush Puppies
Deviled Eggs or Smoked Trout Dip
Seasonal Farmers Market Salad
Apple Brandy Braised Short Rib or Loaded Baked Potato Gnocchi
Pan Roasted Broccolini
Seasonal Dessert or Sticky Toffee Date Cake
Please let us know if you have any dietary issues or concerns for the above dinner menu by July 6 for us to have time for proper notice at Hatchet Hall. Thank you!

About the Distillery
The Yamazaki distillery was opened in 1923 by Torii Shinjirō (鳥井 信治郎) as the first malt whisky distillery in Japan. The company founder and chairman of Kotobukiya (the predecessor company of Suntory) wanted to produce a serious whisky and therefore hired Taketsuru Masataka (竹鶴 政孝), whom he appointed factory director of the Yamazaki distillery in 1924. This descendant of a sake brewing family from the 17th century was in Scotland in 1918. He traveled to study at Glasgow University and learned how to make Scotch whisky on site. He married a Scottish girl, Jessie Roberta "Rita" Cowan, who went to Japan with him in 1920. Under Taketsuru the production of the first whisky was completed in 1929, which was sold as shirofuda (白札, English white label). A good history is found here [link].
About the Presenter:
Jonathan Armstrong is the West Coast Brand Ambassador for House of Suntory. With over 10 years of experience in the spirits industry, he has an extensive background in the craft bartending, artisanal spirits and the hospitality on both the East and West coasts. Based in Los Angeles, he represents House of Suntory's Next-Generation and Luxury portfolios: Haku, Roku, Toki, Hibiki, Yamazaki and Hakushu. His mission is to bring the House of Suntory portfolio to life and build brand awareness and education on Japanese spirits for the hospitality industry and consumers.
About Hatchet Hall
A wood fire cookery with an emphasis on ingredients and old American techniques. We specialize in working relationships with local farmers and purveyors to provide the best quality experience for the table. The wine list changes often with limited runs on by the glass options, focusing on the culture and history of the wine as well as the natural wine movement of all organic, biodynamic, and sustainable wines. The spirits list is vast, specializing in American Whiskey with expressions and nuances that you’re only able to get from being able to purchase a full single barrel. [link]
note:
• Please bring your own Glencairn(s) to the tasting, the club will NOT be providing glassware.
• Rideshare, public transportation, or designated driver is strongly encouraged.
• Please review our FAQs for any questions + information [link]
Big thanks to Jonathan Armstrong for making this happen!