Japanese Whisky Icon Releases €32K Gem

The House of Suntory, one of the most renowned names in the world of Japanese whisky, has just unveiled its latest creation: Hibiki 40 Years Old. This limited edition, consisting of only 400 bottles worldwide, is priced at €32,219 each and represents the most exclusive expression in the distillery's history.

This new whisky was crafted to commemorate the brand's more than a century-long journey and is the result of a complex blending process by Suntory's master blenders. Hibiki 40 Years Old combines different whiskies sourced from the Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita distilleries, all part of the Suntory family. Each of the whiskies used has been carefully selected and aged for over four decades, giving the liquid a unique structure and balance that reflects both maturity and freshness, a constant goal in Suntory's philosophy.

The name Hibiki, which means "resonance" in Japanese, symbolizes the harmony between nature and people, a fundamental principle for The House of Suntory. The production of this whisky followed the monozukuri approach, an artisanal practice focused on refining every detail of the process to ensure that the final product embodies the dedication and knowledge accumulated throughout the house's history.

For the creation of Hibiki 40 Years Old, five types of whisky covering various cask types and styles were used. The main base comes from two American oak Yamazaki malt whiskies from 1978 and 1983, which provide a deep and complex flavor. These are joined by a 1981 Hakushu malt whisky, offering fruity and herbal notes, while a third component, a unique grain whisky from Chita from the 1979 and 1981 harvests, adds a floral profile with a creamy touch. Additionally, a Yamazaki whisky aged in Mizunara casks from 1983 brings incense-like nuances, and a single malt aged in Spanish oak from 1980 complements the blend with sherry notes and a long, enveloping finish.

The design of the bottle and packaging also reflects the attention to detail and commitment to tradition that define The House of Suntory. The bottle, crafted by Kagami Crystal, features 30 facets, representing the anniversary of the Hibiki series. Furthermore, the label has been handcrafted by washi artist Eriko Horiki using the maki-e technique with lacquer and mother-of-pearl, making each bottle a collectible piece. The box that encases the set has been made with 12 types of Japanese wood and decorated with floral motifs symbolizing the seasons in Japan.

The release of Hibiki 40 Years Old comes at a time when Japanese whiskies are solidifying their position as global market leaders. Growing demand and interest from collectors have positioned these expressions among the most coveted and valued worldwide. This new Suntory release fits into this trend, showcasing not only the brand's technical prowess in creating exceptional whiskies but also its commitment to preserving a century-old legacy.

Hibiki 40 Years Old stands out both for its character and aromatic complexity. On the nose, it presents aromas of dried apricot, ripe Japanese loquat, and a hint of lemon peel with spicy notes of clove. On the palate, flavors of dried fig, subtle hints of yuzu, and sweet acacia honey combine with the smoothness of toasted cocoa. The finish is long-lasting and comforting, with a light spiced incense aroma that invites one to explore each layer of the liquid.

This new expression of Hibiki is a testament to The House of Suntory's respect for tradition and innovation. Since its founding in 1923, the distillery has sought to perfect every detail of Japanese whisky production, and with this release, the house has managed to combine the value of age with freshness, creating a liquid that embodies the essence of Japanese craftsmanship.

With Hibiki 40 Years Old, The House of Suntory not only celebrates its legacy but also underscores its intention to continue raising the standard of quality in the world of whisky, ensuring that each bottle becomes a true masterpiece for the enjoyment of enthusiasts and collectors around the world.