Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a masterful blend of grain and malt whiskies from renowned Japanese distilleries in Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita. Poetically called “Kanzen”, which means complete in Japanese, this blend honours the harmony in Japanese tradition, represented by its 24-faceted bottle.
A highly refined whisky, Hibiki whiskey is one of Suntory’s trademark products that is known for its smooth mouthfeel and is a good drink for new whisky fans. It offers enticing flavours of citrus peel and white chocolate. Hibiki Suntory Whisky has 43% alcohol by volume (ABV).
The history of Hibiki Suntory
Introduced in 1989, Hibiki Suntory is a brand of whisky currently manufactured by an extended subsidiary of Suntory Holdings called Beam Suntory. It originally sold only 17-year and 21-year-old Hibiki whiskies but then added 30-year and 12-year expressions in 1997 and 2009.
Its parent company, Suntory Holdings Ltd, was founded by Torii Shinjiro in 1899 and is one of Japan’s oldest whisky makers with a host of notable awards. Hibiki Suntory Whisky was launched in commemoration of Suntory’s 90th anniversary.
Known for its superior quality and taste, Hibiki Suntory Whisky is among the top single malt whiskies outside of the US and is a unique Japanese blend.
What is Hibiki Suntory Whisky made of?
Hibiki Suntory is a blended Japanese single malt whisky primarily made from malt and grains. The blend comprises malt and grain whiskies from distilleries in Japan.
As the whiskies are made in different distilleries, they use a variety of specialty American white oak casks, sherry casks, and premium Mizunara wood casks in the ageing process.
By doing so, each component of the final blend adds unique aromas and flavours that combine to produce the signature Hibiki-style whisky.
Tasting notes
Suntory Whisky Hibiki offers different depths of flavour depending on the expression but the classic, elegant and gentle mouthfeel is retained in general.
Enticing on the nose, the Hibiki whisky seduces with sweet aromas of apricots, orange blossom, and marmalade. There are hints of spice that are reminiscent of cinnamon and cloves.
A single sip of Hibiki Suntory Whisky opens the palate with a generous wave of oranges and apricots, followed by a slight peppery note that does not overpower the fruity taste. It has a well-rounded flavour profile.
Whether you prefer older whiskies or anything in between, the Hibiki Suntory offers a lingering finish that highlights a bit of barrel char and spice.
Serving tips and food pairings
Any whisky purist will say that you should always enjoy top-tier whisky as a neat beverage but that is, in fact, a myth. Hibiki Suntory Whisky can be enjoyed on its own or in a variety of interesting cocktails that will elevate the subtle flavours.
There is also a more traditional way of drinking whisky that is said to originate from Scotland. A satisfying and warm drink called hot whisky or hot toddy, the recipe for this underrated concoction is simple with only two ingredients.
Japanese Hot Whisky
What you need:
- Hibiki Suntory Whisky (2 shots)
- Hot water
- Glass cup
Steps:
- Fill the glass with hot water to warm it up.
- Pour out the water from the glass and fill it with 2 shots of whisky.
- Add two to three part of water to the glass.
- Stir gently with a spoon.
- Serve and enjoy.
Sushi fans will be delighted to know that Hibiki Suntory Whisky is an ideal pairing with any kind of sushi. The smooth and citrusy flavour of the whisky balances well with fresh seafood without overpowering either taste.
Hibiki Whisky also goes well with red meat, especially marbled cuts such as ribeye and strip steaks. The whisky is a perfect pair that brings spice and a little smoke to meaty dishes.
Notable awards
Hibiki Blended Whisky is a top-notch blend with international awards and recognition.
- International Spirits Challenge 2020 (Gold)
- International Spirits Challenge 2019 (Double Gold)
- International Spirits Challenge 2018 (Trophy)
- International Spirits Challenge 2017 (Supreme Champion Spirit Award)
- International Spirits Challenge 2016 (Trophy)
- International Spirits Challenge 2015 (Trophy)
- International Spirits Challenge 2014 (Trophy)
- International Spirits Challenge 2013 (Trophy)
- International Spirits Challenge 2012 (Gold)
- San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2014 (Double Gold)
- San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2012 (Double Gold)
- World Whiskies Awards 2019 (Best Blended Whisky)
- World Whiskies Awards 2017 (Best Blended Whisky)
- World Whiskies Awards 2016 (Best Blended Whisky)
- World Whiskies Awards 2013 (Best Blended Whisky)
- World Whiskies Awards 2012 (Best Blended Whisky)
The Hibiki is a masterfully crafted Japanese whisky honoured as a world-class spirit.
Buy the Hibiki Suntory Whisky now!
