Shinjiro Torii, the founder of Suntory Whisky, envisioned creating a whisky that was filled with each piece of the essence of Japanese nature and hand-crafted by artisans through a patient process of enhancing the work of nature. It was his dream to create subtle, refined, yet complex whisky that would suit the delicate palate of the Japanese and secondly to enhance their dining experience.
Even though Shinjiro Torii was initially inspired by the traditional Scotch whisky creation, Torii envisioned a Japanese approach by choosing a terrain and climate completely different from those of Scotland. Torii chose the region of Yamazaki, on the outskirts of Kyoto as the birthplace of Japanese whisky in 1923.
His dream has then come to fruition with the creation of Hibiki Harmony. Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a multi-layered whisky. It pours as a bright amber, with notes of citrus, honey, lychee, rosemary and oak on the nose. It's full-bodied and fruity, with a long finish, and as a recommended accompaniment with smoked trout.
This is a great addition to a collection and definitely one for fans of international whiskies. A perfect selection to include within a tasting as it would be interesting to compare notes on this complex whisky side by side.
Due to the Japanese Whisky supply shortage, this isn’t cheap at €80/90. That being said, if it’s for you, then it’s worth it all day long. It’s so well-rounded and complex that there’s something new to discover every time you crack it open. While the relatively low ABV provides only a modest punch, it also allows all the notes that Suntory’s blenders combined into this work to come through and take their turn on stage. It’s a pleasure to enjoy!
Nose: Red berries, green apple and layers of rich honey.
Taste: Melted butter and caramelised dates. A hint of fragrant sandalwood develops into warming, oak spice.
Finish: Brown sugar, citrus peels, white grape and black pepper.