Hibiki Japanese Harmony was crafted by the Suntory Whisky blending team, led by Master Blender Shingo Torii. A vibrant amber colour with a complex and elegant expression, notes of honey and orange on the palate and a subtle yet tender finish with a hint of Mizunara (Japanese Oak).
Nose: A rich herbal aroma intertwined with bonfire smoke, evoking imagery of a seaside campfire. Notes of sea salt, struck matches, and subtle roasted orange peel linger behind the smoky veil.
Palate: Medium to full-bodied with a distinct oily texture. The high proof delivers a robust entry, blending sweet spices with peat, accented by a faint trace of sulfur.
Finish: Long and warming, with persistent ashy smoke and briny sea breeze. Hints of matchstick and a delicate iodine note round it out.
With Water: The aroma reveals pronounced wet sea salt and brine, with the smokiness softening into a rounder profile. Vanilla and oak emerge prominently. On the palate, the sweetness persists, with the peat becoming less intense, giving way to caramelized oak and fruit notes.
A gentle giant. This old grain whisky doesn’t try to shout, but it has plenty to say if you’re listening. A soft, elegant dram with aged sherry cask influence, balancing fruit, leather, oak, and just a whisper of tobacco. If you’re chasing subtle complexity over brute strength, this hits the mark.
A complex aged nose. Leather, dark chocolate mousse, dehydrated raspberries, canned peaches, and fermentation funk. Dark with tropical notes that bring it to life. To taste, mandarin syrup with spices; cloves and cinnamon. There’s an incense smokiness to the dram as well, bringing forward more rose and berry notes. A delightful example of an aged whisky, but potentially one that can be sourced for a slightly cheaper price. Claims of uniqueness can be a touch overrated, but still worth the experience.