HIBIKI 40 years

House of Suntory has just released Hibiki 40 Year Old, which is the oldest blended whisky the acclaimed Japanese producer has ever unveiled. Hibiki 40 Years Old is a groundbreaking Japanese whisky, born from over a century of dedication to craft at The House of Suntory.

With the passing of forty seasonal cycles and the care of three generations of Chief Blenders, the whiskies have drawn intense character from Mizunara, Spanish and American oak casks. Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo’s skillful touch has transformed these rich whiskies into an exquisitely subdued blend. The spirit of omotenashi and serenity of Japanese temples finds expression in this delicate composition, where everything is in perfect balance.

Majestic Japanese Craftsmanship

Renowned glassware maker and supplier to the Japanese imperial family, Kagami Crystal, has crafted a 30-faceted bottle decorated with traditional Japanese maki-e, mother-of-pearl inlay, and gold lacquer. The pristine crystal glass and faceted design offers an enchanting view of the golden liquid within. 

This refined attention to detail extends to the outer box, which is made of 12 varieties of Japanese wood and features 12 faces. On the outside, the box is beautifully adorned with delicate flowers and grasses that bring the vibrancy of Japan’s changing seasons to life using maki-e lacquer.

Tasting NOTES

Colour
Golden Amber - Deep maturation in Mizunara, American and Spanish Oak imparts a beautiful golden amber hue.

Nose
Delicate Citrus and Spice - Dried Apricot and ripened Japanese Loquat/Plum with hints of Lemon peel and Clove spice.

Palate
Smooth, Fruity and Sweet - Dried Fig with subtle undertones of Yuzu and sweet Accacia Honey accentuating the smoothness of toasty roasted Cacao.

Finish
Soothing and Spiced - Soothing incense aroma spiced with Cinnamon and Mizunc (Japanese Oak).

HIBIKI 40 years - AUSTRALIA LAUNCH

Mr Gumbatron had the pleasure to be invited to the Australian launch of the Hibiki 40years on the 23rd October. An extraordinary evening of luxury, whisky mastery, and gastronomic indulgence, set against the backdrop of Sydney’s stunning harbour views.

The occasion was presented at the fine-dining purveyor Oncore by Clare Smyth; the first and only British female chef to hold three Michelin stars in the UK. The setting was intimate, with only a handful of guest in attendance, and each seated on a table for two. Somehow I lucked out with arguably the best front row seat in the house overlooking the iconic Sydney Opera House and The Sydney Harbour Bridge. A view that I have not enjoyed since my last trip to the city in 2018.

Invited guests enjoyed an impeccably curated tasting menu paired with the finest expressions from Suntory which included the highlights of Hibiki 30yrs and of course the Hibiki 40yrs. Australian ambassador for the House of Suntory James Buntin, guided us through the different blended whiskies and one of Suntory’s master blender was also in attendance.

A special 5-course menu designed by the acclaimed chef, featured signature dishes from the culinary team at Oncore was a perfect pairing with Suntory’s Hibiki portfolio.

The selection of Hibiki Whisky for tasting, Harmony, 21years, 30 years and 40 years.

Mr Gumbatron was fortunate to have tasted 40 years of dedication, patience, and artistry from The House of Suntory, and also be one of the first in the world to do so. I’m not sure I will ever have the opportunity to ever try this liquid gold ever again so I made sure to savour in the moment.

This Hibiki 40 is incredibly layered, balanced and rich, with notes of plum, clove, honey, subtle citrus, and of course a lingering aroma of incense from the finest Mizunara oak barrels, but in true Japanese style, incredibly balanced. A single drop of water, also really helped to open up the become a more powerful whisky on the nose and palate.

Overlooking one of the most breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, this was an ethereal experience like no other and completely worth the 9 hour flight over to Sydney, Australia for.

The Hibiki 40years, is the oldest expression of Hibiki from The House of Suntory, if you are lucky to come across this bottle then note this is only one for the most serious of Japanese whisky collectors, limited to only 400 bottles worldwide with a eye-watering price tag. But what you get is 40 years of dedication, patience, and artistry from The House of Suntory. The most elite connoisseurs will open this bottle without hesitation, however I would image many will be keeping them in their collections for years to come.

I feel honoured to be one of few that have has the pleasure to tasting the oldest expression of Hibiki and in the most extraordinary setting; in a room shared with team at Suntory and fellow collectors and whisky enthusiasts alike.

Below are the retail prices for the Hibiki 40years
Limited 400bottles; AUD$75,000 / US$50,000 / HK$385,00 per bottle.

For more information click here.

Always drink responsibly. This content is not intended to be viewed by persons under 21 years old.

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dress well, drink well. live well

L.M