The House of Suntory is having a good year. Just a few months ago the Japanese distillery released their universally coveted Yamazaki 55 to the global market (after a domestic release in 2020), the Hibiki Japanese Harmony Limited Edition for 2021 has arrived.
The first thing you’ll notice as being different from a typical bottle of Hibiki Japanese Harmony is the artwork embellishing its faceted shape. The artwork pays tribute to the Ryusui-Hyakka, or One-Hundred Flowers and Flowing Water, featuring a number of blossoms, flowers and streams of water covering its surface.
This motif that focuses on the passage of time is also represented in the 24 facets of the glass bottle that the whisky is held in. The number was chosen for the 24 hours in each day and the 24 seasons in the traditional Japanese lunar calendar, linked closely to Hibiki’s pursuit of harmony.
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“The iconic Hibiki bottle has always been a representation of Japanese art and design, as represented by the many limited-edition series over the past ten years,” said Jon Potter, Managing Director of the House of Suntory. “This specially-designed bottle is not only the continuation of this artistic expression, but it also honours Hibiki and Suntory’s ethos to live in harmony with nature. In 2021, this philosophy may echo with the world more than ever.”
While the bottle looks great, the whisky is an even better treat, carefully selected as a blend of whiskies from the Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries. Offering a rich amber colour, the nose presents notes of rose, lychee, a hint of rosemary and sandalwood. Once sipped on, you’ll enjoy honey-like sweetness, candied orange peel and white chocolate, while the lengthy but subtle finish offers a hint of Mizunara.
The Hibiki Japanese Harmony Limited Edition for 2021 will be available in Dan Murphy’s, Vintage Cellars and select independent retailer stores with an RRP of $200.
