Hibiki 40 Year Old: A Masterpiece of Japanese Whisky Craftsmanship

Whisky enthusiasts are in for a rare treat with the release of Hibiki 40 Year Old, a blend that epitomises the pinnacle of Japanese whisky artistry.

Crafted by Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo, this extraordinary expression from House of Suntory brings together whiskies from three iconic distilleries—Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita.

A true celebration of the House of Suntory’s heritage, Hibiki 40 Year Old is an exclusive blend that showcases the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to innovation that defines Japanese whisky.

A Celebration of House of Suntory’s Centenary

As part of the celebrations marking House of Suntory’s 100th anniversary, the release of Hibiki 40 Year Old underscores the company’s legacy as a world leader in whisky production.

Limited to just 400 bottles, this highly coveted whisky is set to make waves globally, with a price tag of $35,000 (£26,702) per bottle. Each bottle is a collector’s piece, symbolising generations of learning and mastery in whisky blending.

Suntory describes the Hibiki 40 Year Old as “a perfectly harmonious blend,” delivering “a gorgeous taste with layers of unprecedented aroma and mellowness.” It’s a whisky that embodies both tradition and modern craftsmanship, blending the finest standards of Japanese innovation.

The Complex Craft of Blending

What sets Hibiki 40 Year Old apart is its intricate blend of whiskies aged in three different types of oak:

• Mizunara
• Spanish
• American

Each type of wood adds its own distinct characteristics to the whisky, resulting in a complex flavour profile that is both subtle and smooth. The Mizunara oak, native to Japan, imparts a delicate fragrance and elegant spice, while the Spanish and American oak contribute to the whisky’s richness and depth.

This careful selection of cask types is a testament to Suntory’s commitment to creating harmonious, multi-layered whiskies, as seen in the intricate balance of flavours and textures in Hibiki 40 Year Old.

Tasting Notes

For those fortunate enough to experience Hibiki 40 Year Old, the whisky offers a sensory journey like no other.

• On the nose, one can expect delicate aromas of loquat, dry lemon peel, and clove—an enticing invitation to explore further.
• The palate reveals notes of acacia honey and dry fig, creating a rich and slightly sweet experience that is both luxurious and refined.
• The whisky’s finish is long and aromatic, leaving behind a lingering sense of warmth and complexity.

Fukuyo describes the whisky as having “a sense of subduedness, like that of an old temple,” referencing the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi—a beauty found in imperfection and transience. This sense of age and serenity is deeply embedded in the whisky, shaped by its four-decade maturation.

“I would like people to enjoy the pure aroma that has been sharpened over the years; the tranquillity of old temples and storehouses and the nostalgic warm feeling that accompanies them,” Fukuyo adds, inviting whisky lovers to savour not only the taste but the emotions evoked by this rare blend.

A Masterpiece of Design and Heritage

The packaging of the whisky is a tribute to Japanese culture and tradition. A washi paper label was crafted by renowned artist Eriko Horiki, known for her ability to blend traditional Japanese materials with contemporary design. The bottle’s box is made from 12 different types of Japanese wood, symbolising the 12 months of the year, and features 12 faces, each reflecting the harmony found in nature’s cycles.

The bottle is equally impressive, made from crystal glass and adorned with intricate Japanese maki-e, mother-of-pearl inlay, and gold lacquer. These elements not only highlight the beauty of the design but also pay homage to Suntory’s rich heritage and commitment to tradition.

Collecting Rare and Fine Whisky

For those lucky enough to acquire a bottle, Hibiki 40 Year Old promises a one-of-a-kind experience. An experience that many other whisky producers aim to replicate with their own releases. These include:

• The Glenlivet releasing its oldest expression with the Eternal Collection
• Glenmorangie releasing the limited edition Tokyo Tale Whisky
• Glen Grant releasing a 70-year-old whisky
• Highland Park releasing oldest whisky yet with 56-year-old
• Japan’s oldest whisky expression Yamazaki 55 going to auction

As more rare and fine whiskies are released, more collectors struggle to find whiskies that resonate with their taste. At UKV International AG, we help those seeking to add to their whisky collections.

We also develop their passion for whisky in other ways, with investments in cask whisky and arranging meetings with like-minded people.

Contact our whisky experts today and develop your love for whisky.