Hibiki 21 Year Old Whiskey
An Elegant Symphony – A Masterpiece of Harmony and Craftsmanship
Description:
Hibiki 21 Year Old Whiskey is a premium blended whisky produced by Suntory, one of Japan’s most prestigious and respected distilleries. Known for its exceptional artistry in blending, Hibiki showcases the harmonious fusion of both malt and grain whiskies from different Suntory distilleries, including Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita. The 21-year maturation period contributes to a remarkable depth and complexity, making this expression a celebrated release in the world of whisky.
Hibiki 21 Year Old is a reflection of Suntory's mastery in blending, achieving a perfect balance between oak, fruit, spice, and subtle smokiness. It is crafted with great care and attention to detail, showcasing the finesse of Suntory's master blenders, and it has become one of the most sought-after whiskies for collectors and connoisseurs around the world.
This whisky was awarded the World’s Best Blended Whisky title at the World Whiskies Awards and has earned multiple accolades for its complexity, smoothness, and luxurious appeal.
History:
The Hibiki brand was created in 1989 by Suntory, Japan's oldest and most renowned whisky producer, founded by Shinjiro Torii in 1923. The brand was conceived to embody the art of blending, combining malt and grain whiskies from various Suntory distilleries to create a whisky that epitomizes balance and harmony.
The Hibiki 21 Year Old expression, part of the core range of Hibiki, was first introduced in the early 2000s and quickly became a symbol of Suntory's blending expertise. The whisky was matured in a variety of casks, including American oak, sherry casks, and Japanese Mizunara oak, which imparted unique flavors that helped elevate its complexity. The 21-year aging process allowed the whisky to develop a rich character, with layers of deep flavors and a smooth texture, making it a highly sought-after luxury expression in the world of whisky.
As part of the Hibiki range, the 21 Year Old reflects Suntory's philosophy of harmony in every aspect of production, from the blending of different whiskies to the careful selection of maturation casks. Its beautifully designed bottle, inspired by the Japanese tradition of aesthetics, further emphasizes its status as a premium whisky.
Tasting Notes:
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Nose: The nose of Hibiki 21 Year Old is incredibly inviting, complex, and aromatic. It opens with a rich bouquet of dried fruits, including raisins, prunes, and apricots, balanced by a delicate spicy sweetness of cinnamon and nutmeg. There are undertones of dark chocolate, vanilla, and toffee, with an unmistakable presence of Japanese Mizunara oak, which contributes a soft yet exotic aroma of sandalwood, coconut, and wood smoke. The bouquet is rounded off with a touch of honey and floral notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the whisky.
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Palate: On the palate, Hibiki 21 Year Old is velvety and smooth, with a delicate sweetness that perfectly balances its spice. The initial flavors of dark fruit (think black cherries and figs) quickly evolve into layers of spiced oak, with hints of cloves, cinnamon, and a touch of ginger. A gentle smokiness emerges as the whisky opens up, accompanied by flavors of dark chocolate and toasted almonds. The presence of Mizunara oak adds a unique, earthy sandalwood character that further enhances the depth and sophistication of the whisky. The grain whisky used in the blend provides a touch of creamy vanilla and a subtle toffee sweetness, offering a smooth and luxurious mouthfeel.
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Finish: The finish is long, warm, and incredibly satisfying. Hibiki 21 Year Old leaves a lingering aftertaste of dried fruit, oak, and spices, with a soft, elegant smokiness that fades gently. There’s a final touch of honey and vanilla sweetness, leaving the drinker with a lasting impression of balance and harmony.
Overall:
Hibiki 21 Year Old is a luxurious and complex blended whisky that showcases the art of blending at its finest. The combination of malt and grain whiskies from Suntory’s various distilleries, paired with the unique influence of Japanese Mizunara oak, results in a whisky that is both elegant and multidimensional. The whisky’s balance of sweetness, spice, and oakiness makes it a true standout in the world of premium whisky.
This expression is an excellent choice for the discerning whisky connoisseur, offering a sophisticated drinking experience that can be enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to open up its flavors. Whether savored alone or paired with fine cuisine, Hibiki 21 Year Old is a whisky that reflects the Japanese philosophy of harmony, where every element works together in perfect balance.
Its limited availability and exceptional quality make it a collector’s item and a truly memorable dram for anyone fortunate enough to experience it.
