hibiki-suntory-whisky

hibiki whisky

Hibiki is a multi- award winning, premium blended whisky by Suntory. It is possibly one of the most famous Japanese whiskies in the western world. Hibiki whisky is blended from over 30 various malt and grain whiskies to produce a deep, rich flavour.

Hibiki whiskies are available in three age categories, 17 years, 21 years and the latest addiction, Hibiki ‘Japanese Harmony’.

Hibiki 21 Years

Hibiki 21 is a firm favourite among whisky connoisseurs. Sweet and fruity, this whisky has a stewed autumn fruits and caramel nose, with woody sandalwood, mizunara and apricot palate and a satisfyingly long finish. A prize part of any collection, a bottle will set you back between £600 – £700 in the UK.

Hibiki 17 Years

Hibiki 17 is cleaner and lighter than its older sister. It has a fresh nose with peach, melon and lily. It’s palate has a toffee and black cherry taste with a light lychee aftertaste finish. Hibiki 17 years old is slightly more affordable and an ideal choice for those who prefer ‘lighter’ whiskies.

Hibiki ‘Japanese Harmony’

First introduced to the market in 2015. A complex beast, this expression is from with the same malt and grain whisky blend of its original, (at least 10 blends from three different distilleries), well-kempt in five variants of cask! It has subtle notes of white chocolate and orange, although some fans claim it is a little thinner than other Suntory whiskies.

Hibiki history

The Hibiki brand was originally released in 1989 to celebrate the 90th year anniversary of Suntory. This launch included the 17 year and 21 year age statements. In 1997, a 30-year expression was introduced and another 12-year expression in 2009 but both have now been discontinued.

Hibiki awards

 

Hibiki 21 Year Awards

  • ISC Gold – 2004, 2005, 2006, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
  • ISC Trophy – 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
  • ISC Supreme Champion Spirits – 2017
  • WWA – World’s Best Blended Whisky – 2012
  • WWA – Best Japanese Blend 21 years and over – 2012
  • Whisky Bible Awards – Japanese Whisky of the Year – 2012
  • IWSC Gold (Best in Class) – 2010, 2011
  • WWA World’s Best Whisky – 2010, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2017

 

Hibiki 17 Years Awards

  • ISC Gold – 2009, 2012, 2013, 2016
  • WWA- Best Japanese Blend 13 to 20 years – 2012
  • SWSC Double Gold – 2005
  • IWSC Gold (Best in Class) – 2007

 

Hibiki ‘Japanese Harmony’ Awards

  • SWSC Double Gold – 2016
  • ISC Gold – 2017

 

Want to know more about Suntory whisky? Check out my Japanese whisky blogs and reviews, including my thoughts about Suntory Chita.