Suntory, a leader in the realm of Japanese whisky, has unveiled its gem: Hibiki 40 Years Old. Launched globally on October 3, this ultra-premium whisky stands as a testament to the profound artistry of Japanese distilling. With only 400 bottles released to the international market and a staggering price tag of $35,000 each, Hibiki 40 is not merely a drink; it is a singular experience steeped in history and craftsmanship that whiskey enthusiasts would trust to hold a place of honor in their collections.
At its core, Hibiki 40 encapsulates the philosophy of Japanese whisky: the meticulous art of blending exceptional spirits. This dedication to blending dates back to the 1920s when Shinjiro Torii, the founder of Suntory, embarked on a journey to craft fine whisky despite the cultural unfamiliarity with the spirit in Japan. In 1923, his visionary endeavors paved the way for a burgeoning industry that continues to garner respect and admiration globally. While other distilleries began to emerge, notably Nikka in 1940, it was Suntory’s emphasis on blending that set a unique course within the whisky market.
Suntory established three distilleries—Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita—to ensure unparalleled quality control in the production of their branded whiskies. Hibiki serves as the pinnacle of Suntory’s blending techniques, showcasing their relentless pursuit of excellence.
Hibiki 40 Years Old distinguishes itself by evolving the flavors inherent in its predecessors. Known for its graceful elegance and delicate aromas, this whisky introduces new layers of flavor characterized by a uniquely antique essence. At a launch event in New York, Suntory’s chief blender, Shinji Fukuyo, noted the whisky’s resemblance to historical treasures, likening its character to that of a revered library or an ancient temple.
The blending process behind Hibiki 40 is a testament to Fukuyo’s lifelong dedication since he joined Suntory post-college in 1984. Over the years, he has tirelessly innovated to unlock the potential of various whiskies, resulting in a blend comprising five distinct whiskies. The primary base originates from Yamazaki, aged in American white oak barrels from 1978 and 1983, providing distinctive notes reminiscent of vintage antiquities. Lightly peated Hakushu from 1981 balances the blend with subtle smokiness, while grain whisky sourced from the Chita distillery (1979) enhances the blend’s sweetness.
Additionally, the antiquity of the flavor profile is enriched by Yamazaki Spanish sherry cask and Mizunara Japanese oak cask whiskies, each contributing their unique character. Fukuyo describes Hibiki 40’s aromatic bouquet as an intricate weaving of Japanese loquat, dry lemon peel, and clove, culminating in flavors of pure acacia honey and dry fig—culminating in an evocative aftertaste that lingers on the palate.
The Bottle: A Work of Art
Appreciating Hibiki goes beyond the liquid itself; the presentation is a celebration of Japanese craftsmanship and tradition. The 40 Years Old bottle, crafted from 30-faceted crystal glass by Kagami Crystal—a company with ties to the Japanese imperial family—comes with a hand-carved cap. It’s housed in a carefully designed box adorned with traditional maki-e, mother-of-pearl, and gold lacquer, each detail reflecting the rich cultural heritage that Suntory embodies.
A critical point to acknowledge is the evolving landscape of Japanese whisky and the challenges of maintaining authenticity. Following the international acclaim of Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013, which was crowned the world’s best whisky by Jim Murray in 2015, numerous new brands made their entrance into the market, not all of which possess genuine Japanese origins.
To combat this lack of transparency, in 2021, the Japan Spirits and Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA) set forth strict standards for labeling products as “Japanese whisky.” These requirements, which regulate ingredients, production methods, and geographical origin, have recently begun to be enforced. Such stringent guidelines aim to safeguard the integrity of Japanese whisky, ensuring that consumers can trust the provenance of the spirits they purchase.
Suntory has stood at the forefront of the Japanese whisky movement for over a century, and Hibiki 40 Years Old is a brilliant reflection of this legacy. This iconic blend not only honors the precision and dedication of its makers but also showcases the artistry that defines true Japanese whisky. With a nod to the future and a commitment to preserving authenticity, Suntory hopes to guide the industry into its next century of excellence, ensuring that craftsmanship remains the cornerstone of Japanese whisky.