Hibiki Suntory Harmony: A Symphony of Flavors
Hibiki Suntory Harmony is a meticulously crafted blended whisky representing the artistry and harmony of Suntory's whisky-making tradition. It's designed to be a "harmony" of various malt and grain whiskies from Suntory's renowned distilleries, Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita. This blend embodies the delicate balance and complexity that Hibiki is known for, making it a perfect introduction to the world of Japanese blended whisky.
Brief History:
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Suntory's Legacy: Suntory, founded by Shinjiro Torii in 1899, is a pioneer of Japanese whisky. The creation of Hibiki is a testament to Suntory's pursuit of excellence and innovation.
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The Hibiki Philosophy: The Hibiki blend reflects the Japanese concept of "harmony" (wa), both in its flavor profile and its presentation. It's a blend of carefully selected whiskies that come together to create a seamless and elegant experience.
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Key Distilleries:
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Yamazaki Distillery (1923): Japan's first and oldest malt whisky distillery, known for its diverse range of whiskies.
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Hakushu Distillery (1973): Nestled in the mountains, Hakushu produces peated and lightly peated whiskies with a distinctive fresh and vibrant character.
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Chita Distillery (1972): Suntory’s grain whisky distillery, producing delicate and refined grain whiskies.
- The Hibiki Harmony was designed to be a blend that could be enjoyed by a wider audience, while still retaining the high quality and elegance of the Hibiki brand.
Tasting Notes:
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Aroma: A delicate and inviting aroma with notes of honey, orange peel, apricot, and a subtle floral fragrance.
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Palate: Smooth and gentle on the palate, with a well-balanced sweetness and subtle spiciness. Flavors of candied orange, white chocolate, and Mizunara oak (a Japanese oak) emerge.
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Finish: A lingering and gentle finish with a touch of sweetness and subtle oak.
Overall Impression:
Hibiki Suntory Harmony is a versatile and approachable whisky that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a highball. Its delicate and balanced flavor profile makes it a favorite among whisky enthusiasts and newcomers alike. It truly is a testament to the skill of the Suntory blenders.
