Hibiki 21 Year

A longtime enthusiast of this brand, I previously acquired many bottles of Hibiki 12. I enjoyed it greatly, but its rising cost and subsequent discontinuation led me to trade my stock for elusive whiskies. Though I regret not keeping a bottle or two, they are long gone. I've sampled Harmony, which is accessible but costly. I also cherished a bottle of Hibiki 17, which is now unavailable, much to my disappointment (cue sad emoji). My prior encounter with Hibiki 21 was during a memorable evening at Milroy’s in London as the pandemic began. This current tasting uses a bottle kindly lent to me. The color is a vibrant Pantone 130. The aroma is direct, offering a welcoming greeting with notes akin to a potent soy-vinegar dumpling sauce, sandalwood, brown sugar, coconut, orange zest, a cured meat character like soppressata, vanilla, almond pastry, and a fragrance reminiscent of incense I used to burn in Korea years ago. It's captivating; I could inhale it indefinitely. The palate possesses a pleasing texture, featuring honey and sweet candied orange. The finish is extended, starting with a subtle spice and evolving into marzipan and vanilla. It's rich, smooth, and refined – descriptors I generally dislike but find fitting here. The soy-vinegar dumpling sauce note is prominent and fundamental. Repeatedly nosing it over thirty minutes confirmed this. It resembles a zesty barbecue sauce, a profile I've identified in other spirits, though it might sound unappealing to some readers. This soy-vinegar element forms the base for the entire aromatic composition. Hibiki 21 usually costs significantly over $1,000, if available. Would I purchase it? Yes, if I were wealthy. It earns a perfect score, marking only the second time I've awarded such a rating (the first was for 2019 William Larue Weller). I'm aware of a 30-year Hibiki from Suntory, but I have not encountered it yet.

Summer 2023 - Patmos Greece How to put into words the indescribable feeling this whisky creates on the palate? A singular and novel experience. This whisky combines the fullness of American whiskeys with the refinement of Japanese whiskeys. Appearance is rather pale. Nose is quite restrained, offering some fruity notes and wisps of alcohol from the strength, which, while not overpowering, remains noticeable. Very smooth, subtly fruity, with body but without overwhelming the mouth. It feels like a divine elixir an ancient hero might have stolen from the gods. Sampled on a blissful island, thanks to the generosity of a Silicon Valley magnate, who has skillfully balanced his professional success with his ability to remain a down-to-earth, modest, and humorous man. Thank you, Sir.

The perfect conclusion to a fantastic ramen meal shared with dear friends. Thank you, Eli! The aroma is a deep well of scents, with cherry wood and leather polish immediately standing out. It also smells syrupy, making me wonder if it will be a sweeter, richer spirit. The palate is initially very fruity, and though the mouthfeel is syrupy, it's not cloying at all. I detect sandalwood and a strong oak note – like being in a dense, old forest. It's remarkably intriguing, unique, and satisfying. The rich, syrupy sensation gives way to more delicate notes of green tea and rose petals. The finish has notes of plum wine and menthol cigarettes. A generous pour from a generous friend.

Suntory presents this Japanese blended whisky, beginning with a fragrant introduction of toasted nuts, tart lemon, dark berries, and ripe pears. It evolves with hints of vanilla, deep caramel, and warming sherry spice. The palate continues with cooked herbs, citrus zest, wood, deep red cherries, and sugary caramel, offering a buttery texture, a trace of smoke, and woody spice. This culminates in a prolonged finish with a touch of smoke. August 2017 / June 2018 / March 2019 / July 2022

A fantastic bottle to finally uncork. I had this set aside for a significant event. This limited edition was picked up at Narita Airport some time back. It was enjoyed on my wedding day with my attendants. The experience was mellow and sugary.

Phenomenal. Among the most delightful spirits I've sampled. A smooth and sugary aroma. Quite refined. Taste: Rich with fruit, intricate, and harmonious. A moderate finish. Stunning whiskey