House of Suntory has released Hibiki 40 Year Old, combining whiskies from the Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries, Hibiki 40 Years Old is Suntory’s oldest blended Japanese whisky to date. Created by Suntory’s chief blender, Shinji Fukuyo, Hibiki 40 Years Old is described as a ‘harmonious’ blend.
Hibiki 40 Year Old is described as ‘the pinnacle of generations of learning and craftsmanship, and a unique and incredibly rare embodiment of the finest standards of Japanese mastery, making a statement of the spirit of innovation at The House of Suntory.’ The whisky sits at 43% ABV and carries an RRP of £33,150 (US$35,000). With only 400 bottles produced, the Hibiki 40 Year Old is one of the rarest and most coveted whiskies in the world.
Tasting notes include aromas of Japanese loquat, dry lemon peel, and clove. The palate is said to offer flavours of acacia honey and dry fig, ending with an aromatic aftertaste.
Shinji Fukuyo, chief blender at House of Suntory, said: “I would like people to enjoy the pure aroma that has sharpened over the years; the tranquillity of old temples and storehouses and the nostalgic warm feeling that accompanies them.”
To honor its roots in Japanese tradition, The House of Suntory has gone to extraordinary lengths to ensure that Hibiki 40 Year Old is presented in a manner worthy of its contents. Artist Eriko Horiki crafted the washi label on the Hibiki 40 Year Old box, which is made from 12 different types of Japanese wood and has 12 faces to symbolise the 12 months of the year.
The bottle is made from crystal glass and decorated with traditional Japanese maki-e, mother-of-pearl inlay, and gold lacquer designed to pay homage to Suntory’s heritage and tradition.