Whisky Review: Hibiki Japanese Harmony

Japanese whisky has become more and more popular around the globe over the past few years, and Hibiki has become a big name. More than ten different malt and grain whiskies were used to create this unified blend, sourced from Suntory’s Hakushu and Yamazaki distilleries as well as the Chita grain distillery. The word “Hibiki” translates to “echo.”

This whisky comes in beautiful minimalist packaging. The box is mostly white with beautiful insignia and lovely typography. The same design is used again on the label of the bottle itself. The liquid inside is a warm golden hue.

Opening the bottle, I detect fruit, flowers, and vanilla. Oranges, pineapple, and bananas accompany a bouquet of roses, mellowed and sweetened by vanilla and a hint of spice. The smell pulls you right in, and I found myself very excited for the first sip! On the palate, you get plenty of orange and a hint of peach or apricot. The vanilla is easily detectable as well, and the spices taste like cinnamon and nutmeg. And unless I am mistaken, there is a hint of ginger. It adds a great kick and a little bite, and keeps the sweet flavors from getting out of line. There is a lovely long finish which is both spicy and sweet.

This is not a cheap whisky. You will pay at least $60 for it, and I have seen bottles go for close to $100. It is well worth it, though. The flavors are beautifully blended and balanced, and dare I say “harmonious”? Yes, this whisky has earned its name. Give Hibiki Japanese Harmony a try, especially if you are a lover of citrus and flowers.

Hibiki Japanese Harmony : Review Summary

Colour: Gold.

Nose: Orange, pineapple, banana, rose, vanilla, spice.

Palate: Orange, peach, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger.