Suntory’s recent unveiling of Hibiki 40 Years Old marks a significant milestone in the world of premium Japanese whisky. Released globally on October 3, this extraordinarily aged whisky is limited to just 400 bottles, each retailing at a whopping $35,000. The rarity and price tag alone speak volumes about its status, but the true value lies in the craftsmanship, tradition, and cultural essence embodied in every drop.
The genesis of the Japanese whisky industry can be traced back to Suntory founder Shinjiro Torii in 1923. At a time when the notion of whisky was virtually unknown to most Japanese, Torii embarked on an ambitious journey to create high-quality spirits. His innovative approach involved the art of blending rather than relying solely on single malt production, paving the way for a unique Japanese whisky identity. Torii established several distilleries—Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita—each contributing distinct profiles to the whisky-making process.
Hibiki, derived from the Japanese word for “echo,” perfectly encapsulates the philosophy of blending that Torii championed. It serves not just as a brand, but as a testament to Suntory’s unwavering commitment to excellence in the whisky sector. Hibiki has grown into a symbol of balance and harmony, reflecting intricate layers of taste that appeal to both connoisseurs and new drinkers alike.
What distinguishes Hibiki 40 Years Old from its predecessors is not merely its age but the depth of flavors forged through decades of aging and meticulous blending. During the launch event held in New York, Shinji Fukuyo, the chief blender at Suntory, emphasized the unique characteristics that emerged in this latest iteration. The “hint of patina,” evoking memories of grand libraries or ancient temples, reveals the elegance and complexity honed over four decades.
Fukuyo’s journey with Suntory began in 1984, and his extensive experience is evident in the creation of Hibiki 40. The blend showcases five meticulously selected whiskies, with primary contributions from an American white oak-aged Yamazaki from the 1978 and 1983 vintages. This selection infuses the energy of aged wood and a profound richness, while slightly peated Hakushu adds an aromatic smokiness. Complemented by grain whisky from Chita and unique accent whiskies aged in Spanish sherry casks and Mizunara Japanese oak, the overall profile is a harmonious interplay of sweetness and complexity.
The result is an award-winning whisky with aromas of Japanese loquat, dry lemon peel, and clove, alongside flavors of pure acacia honey and dry fig, culminating in a long, memorable finish.
The artistry surrounding Hibiki 40 goes beyond just the liquid inside the bottle. Each bottle is a work of art in its own right, crafted from crystal glass featuring 30 meticulously cut facets, a nod to traditional craftsmanship supplied by Kagami Crystal, known for their royal commissions. The meticulous attention extends to the cap, which is hand-carved, and the packaging adorned with maki-e—a traditional Japanese lacquer technique that employs mother-of-pearl inlays and gold lacquer. This presentation underscores Suntory’s reverence for Japanese heritage and craftsmanship, further enhancing the experience of enjoying Hibiki 40 Years Old.
The rise of Japanese whisky’s popularity has not come without challenges. The sudden acclaim following Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible designation of Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013 as the world’s best whisky in 2015 ignited a surge of interest that led to an influx of labels claiming to be Japanese whisky. Unfortunately, some of these brands do not uphold the same standards or authenticity that established players like Suntory offer.
In response, the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA) introduced stringent new labeling standards in 2021 to preserve the credibility of Japanese whisky. These guidelines ensure that products labeled as Japanese whisky adhere to rigorous criteria encompassing ingredients, production methods, and geographical authenticity. As the grace period ended in April 2023, consumers can expect greater assurance regarding the quality and origin of their whisky selections.
Hibiki 40 Years Old is more than a drink; it is a historical narrative intertwined with Suntory’s legacy, reflecting over a century of dedication to whisky craftsmanship. As we embark into another century, the goal remains clear: to sustain and nurture the evolution of the Japanese whisky industry. Fukuyo’s sentiment captures the essence of this endeavor, echoing the hope that the industry will continue to thrive and respect the meticulous art that goes into each and every bottle.
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