Hibiki “Japanese Harmony” Blended Whisky

Tasting Note:

• Appearance: Hibiki Japanese Harmony boasts a rich amber color, hinting at the blend’s age and the marriage of various malt and grain whiskies. The clarity of the spirit suggests a smooth and refined character.
• Aroma: The nose opens with a complex and inviting bouquet. A wave of sweet and fruity notes dominates, with hints of ripe orchard fruits like apple, pear, and apricot. These are intertwined with subtle floral notes of rose and honey, hinting at the influence of floral honey barrels used in the maturation process. Underlying these are hints of baking spice (cinnamon, nutmeg) and a touch of mature wood.
• Palate: The first sip offers a delightful balance of sweetness, fruitiness, and spice. The initial sweetness echoes the fruity notes from the aroma, balanced by a wave of warming spice. The influence of various malt and grain whiskies unfolds on the palate, offering hints of honeyed malt, vanilla, and a touch of chocolate from the grain whiskies. The overall mouthfeel is smooth and medium-bodied, with a pleasant silkiness.
• Finish: The finish is medium-length and satisfying. Lingering notes of fruit, spice, honey, and a touch of oak fade slowly, leaving a gentle warmth on the palate. A subtle hint of Mizunara oak, known for its delicate cedar and sandalwood notes, may linger in the background.

Overall, Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a beautifully blended whisky that showcases the artistry of Japanese whisky making. The complex interplay of sweet fruit, honeyed malt, warming spice, and subtle oak creates a truly harmonious and memorable experience. This smooth and approachable whisky is a great choice for sipping neat, savoring on the rocks, or using as a base for classic cocktails.

Food Pairing:

Food pairings for Hibiki Japanese Harmony Blended Whisky:

Hibiki Japanese Harmony’s complex and harmonious flavor profile offers a delightful canvas for exploring various food pairings. Here are some delicious options to complement its sweet, fruity, spicy, and oaky notes:

Savory Pairings:

• Sashimi and Sushi: The whisky’s sweetness and subtle fruitiness enhance the delicate flavors of fresh seafood. The balance of the blend won’t overpower the subtle nuances of the fish.
• Grilled Meats and Vegetables: Grilled steak, chicken, or lamb pair well with Hibiki. The sweetness complements the smoky char, while the oaky notes add complexity. Grilled vegetables like asparagus or mushrooms also create a delightful pairing.
• Japanese Cuisine: Hibiki is a natural companion to Japanese dishes. Explore it with yakitori (grilled skewered chicken), tempura (fried vegetables and seafood), or a steaming bowl of ramen. The whisky’s well-rounded profile complements the savory and umami flavors of Japanese cuisine.
• Soft Cheeses: The sweetness and spice of Hibiki create a delightful contrast with the creaminess of cheeses like brie, camembert, or goat cheese.

Adventurous Pairings:

• Foie Gras: The sweetness and fruitiness of Hibiki can help to cut through the richness of foie gras, creating a luxurious and interesting pairing.

Sweet Pairings:

• Dark Chocolate: The sweetness and oaky notes of Hibiki complement the richness of dark chocolate. Explore different cacao percentages to find your perfect match. A chocolate with hints of fruit or spice can further complement the whisky’s profile.
• Fruit and Nut Tart: A tart with seasonal fruits like berries or stone fruits paired with nuts like almonds or walnuts offers a textural and flavor contrast to the Hibiki. The sweetness of the fruit complements the whisky, while the nuts add a touch of savory richness.

• Avg Price (ex-tax)
• $111 / 750 ml / 43% abv

Seductive, blossoming and subtle, our Hibiki Whisky range celebrates an unrivaled art of blending, fine craftsmanship and a sense of luxury from the House of Suntory.

https://house.suntory.com/hibiki-whisky/hibiki-japanese-harmony