Suntory Hibiki 40 Years Old

Hibiki is the paragon of Japanese whisky, born in pursuit of perfect harmony through the art of blending. Developed and refined over 100 years at The House of Suntory, this artform reaches its nexus with the release of Hibiki 40 Years Old. This stunning blend comprises five supremely aged whiskies that each offer a taste of ancient Japan to the world.

With the passing of forty seasonal cycles and the care of three generations of Chief Blenders, the whiskies have drawn intense character from Mizunara, Spanish and American oak casks. Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo’s skillful touch has transformed these rich whiskies into an exquisitely subdued blend. The spirit of omotenashi and serenity of Japanese temples finds expression in this delicate composition, where everything is in perfect balance.

Renowned glassware maker and supplier to the Japanese imperial family, Kagami Crystal, has crafted a 30-faceted bottle decorated with traditional Japanese maki-e, mother-of-pearl inlay, and gold lacquer. The pristine crystal glass and faceted design offers an enchanting view of the golden liquid within.
  

This refined attention to detail extends to the outer box, which is made of 12 varieties of Japanese wood and features 12 faces. On the outside, the box is beautifully adorned with delicate flowers and grasses that bring the vibrancy of Japan’s changing seasons to life using maki-e lacquer.

BLENDING HARMONY

Yamazaki White Oak Casks - 1978 & 1983

Barreled in 1978 and 1983, the aging process contributes an antique-like aroma, complemented with a pleasing creaminess and delicate fruity notes.

Hakushu Lightly Peated - 1981

The direct firing of stills imparts a rich intensity to this whisky. The peat notes are softened and rounded through 42 years of maturation, allowing fruity and herbal aromas to flourish.

Chita Grain Whisky - 1979, 1981

Notes of jasmine, lychee and a smooth sweetness result from the long maturation time. An extremely long, lingering finish is paired with a surprising lightness which softens the presence of Mizunara in Hibiki 40 Years Old. These liquids play a perfect supporting role in the blend.

Yamazaki Spanish Oak - 1980

Intense dark dried fruit notes and high astringency represent a strong Spanish oak character. Due to the intense character of this component, it is used sparingly to add depth, complexity and texture to the blend.

Yamazaki Mizunara - 1983

Intense and rich, this whisky imparts a uniquely Japanese character from the Mizunara oak. Aromatic, spicy, lingering and textured, the liquid coats the tongue with incense. This whisky is strongly present in the aroma of Hibiki 40 Years Old and an essential piece in Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo’s vision of creating a remarkably Japanese whisky.

Hibiki, meaning “resonance”, honors the harmony between nature and Japanese people that embodies the heart of The House of Suntory.

Inspired by the 24 seasons of Japan, our Hibiki range captures nature’s subtleties and riches through the art of blending. As nature runs its course, it infuses each of the liquids with enchanting qualities that resonate deep within.