響21年 Suntory Hibiki 21 Year Old Blended Whisky (700ml)

Background: Created in 1989 but only recently available in the United States, Hibiki is a blend of single malts from Suntory's two distilleries, Yamazaki and Hakushu, and grain whisky from their Chita distillery. The design of the bottle is meant to symbolize the 24 seasons of the Japanese lunar calendar. Note: Announced in 2018, this product will be discontinued in some markets at some point beginning in 2019 with limited availability in the next few years.

Tasting Note: There is a beautiful marriage of grain and fruit expressed in this whisky. The sherry casks are quite evident with stone fruit and cherry mixed with warm baking spices and a light floral incense. The malt, however, is standing firm and not being over-powered by the fruit. There is a gentle wisp of smoke with the finish and it acts much like adding salt and pepper to your dish. Kudos to their master blender for a harmonious and elegant whisky.

Type: Blended

Cask: EX-BOURBON AMERICAN OAK, EX-SHERRY EUROPEAN OAK, JAPANESE MIZUNARA

Alcohol: 43%

Cask Strength: No