That is one of the tamer ones too. Gulp...maybe I should be worried? Here it goes, I present to you, Hibiki Japanese Harmony by Suntory Whisky Distillery.
I was reading through Whiskey Advocate and saw that Suntory was selected as the distillery of the year for 2014. Having very little experience with Japanese made whiskies, I decided to go find out. Hibiki is a blended whiskey, which I tend to shy away from, however, when done well, blended whiskies can be very good. At first inspection, there is nothing too special, the color is light and it smells like a scotch. The first taste is well, amazing if you like complexity. I could taste your classic scotch flavors such as those of a Macallan's fine oak, as well as the peaty smokiness of a Islay type scotch as well. The smokey flavor is very prevalent but not overpowering. Overall, the feel is very light and smooth, with a dry finish. I also seem to find it slightly spicy and sweet. Overall, it is a very well balanced whisky. Well played Japan, well played.
The numbers: I get it for nearly $80 at BevMo; however I have seen it for $65 or so from online retailers.
It reminds me of...the end of a long day after you have gone to work, cleaned the house, cooked dinner, finished laundry and you just want to relax with something special to drink.
The verdict: Not gonna lie, it is expensive for what you get. Don't get me wrong it is good, but definitely not a daily sipper. I would say this should be reserved for more of an occasion drink. Not many people will have experienced Japanese whisky, so it is a good conversation starter as well.
Please comment below! If you think there is something I must try or something you want me to review, toss it in the comments and I will see what I can do.
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Professional tasting notes:
connosr.com
thewhiskeyjug.com
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