But chief blender Fukuyo concedes there are still strides to be created when it comes to ramping up output.
For making the blends readily available as of 2010, greater than 30 whiskies were being Utilized in the mix, including some which were aged more than thirty decades and some which were aged in previous umeshu casks.[sixteen] A bamboo charcoal filtering action has also been utilised. The organization stated the process "Offers it an exceptionally sweet and Mild taste".
Intricate flavour profiles like these are generally arguably a result of the Japanese rules of “kodawari”, the pursuit of perfection, and “kaizen”, continuous advancement – concepts that have designed “Japanese-built” a badge of honour for everything from automobiles to stationery.
The whisky is marketed inside of a decanter with 24 sides, symbolizing the 24 hrs on the working day as well as the shifting seasons, and it is entire with washi paper label adorned with "Hibiki" in calligraphy, offering it a Japanese aesthetic.
Kakubin retains a light, malty flavour that lends alone very well to cocktails – In particular the highball, a preferred drink in Japan.
“Japan’s master whisky blenders exude satisfaction and passion every time they talk about their creations, as well as their distilleries are certainly not frightened to experiment,” suggests Mr Yeoh.
Hibiki is often a noble combination of innumerous malt and grain whiskies from Suntory's acclaimed distilleries, and is also embraced as an icon of Japanese luxury from the award-profitable Household of Suntory Whisky.
These days, that facility – referred to as the Yamazaki Distillery – still stands as the house of Suntory’s extremely prized whiskies.
“And it exhibits just what may be doable in Suntory’s future one hundred yrs of pushing the whisky frontier.”
Yet another mystery weapon is from the selective utilization of casks comprised of the exceptional Japanese mizunara oak to age a lot of the base spirit, which in turn bestows notes of sandalwood and incense in the liquid.
“It’s fascinating how they are in the position to assist Hibikiwin each other by way of liquid Trade, and maybe Japanese whisky can eventually get to that time,” he states, referring to distilleries in Scotland sharing and exchanging liquids to produce blends.
A guideline tells this reporter throughout the tasting that the addition of soda water enhances the flavour and character of the whisky.
The bottle has thirty facets—the most while in the Hibiki series—providing it a jewel-like appearance. It’s viewed as Suntory's masterpiece within the Hibiki lineup, while its limited availability causes it to be challenging to acquire.
“Winning Intercontinental competitions meant that we developed a robust track record between whisky lovers,” he adds.
It has a gentle, deep flavor and also a fruity aroma, embodying the harmonious stability which is attribute of Japanese whisky.