In Celebration of - Hibiki Japanese Harmony

Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a beautiful example of Japanese whisky craftsmanship. This week, we delve into the inspiration behind its release and explore the intricate flavors that make it unique.

The bottle itself is just gorgeous. It’s a 24-faceted design made to represent the Japanese seasons. Japan traditionally recognizes 24 seasons, known as "sekki," each reflecting subtle changes in nature throughout the year. This attention to detail in the design makes the bottle as much a piece of art as the whisky inside. It really looks great on the shelf.

Japanese Harmony was introduced in 2015 to celebrate Suntory's dedication to creating the finest blended whiskies. The idea was to showcase a blend that would capture the essence of Japanese craftsmanship and nature. It’s designed to be an accessible expression within the Hibiki range that provides an elegant experience to new whisky drinkers and connoisseurs alike. With so many new drinkers discovering whisky these days, I see this as a smart business move. Sort of a welcome mat to the newcomers that’s nuanced and interesting enough for the experienced drinker.

Japanese Harmony is renowned for its intricate balance and harmonious flavors. Hence the name. It combines a variety of malt and grain whiskies from Suntory's Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita distilleries. The result is a unique  symphony of flavors—notes of honey, orange peel, and white chocolate blend seamlessly with a subtle hint of Mizunara oak, giving it a uniquely Japanese character.

The distilling process itself involves a meticulous blending technique, overseen by Suntory's Master Blenders. The whisky is aged in a variety of casks, including American white oak, Sherry, and Mizunara oak, which contribute to its complex flavor profile. This careful selection and combination of casks create a layered and harmonious flavor profile.

Since its introduction in 1989, Hibiki has garnered numerous awards and accolades. Its elegant presentation and exquisite taste have made it a favorite among connoisseurs and collectors alike. Hibiki Japanese Harmony is enjoyed worldwide, with its popularity growing every year. It's sold in over 30 countries and has become a symbol of the sophistication and quality of Japanese whisky.

Since its introduction in 1989, Japanese Harmony has garnered numerous awards and accolades. Its elegant presentation and exquisite taste have made it a favorite among connoisseurs and collectors alike. It is enjoyed worldwide, with its popularity growing every year. It's sold in over 30 countries and has become a symbol of sophistication and refinement.

Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a versatile whisky, perfect for both sipping neat and crafting sophisticated cocktails. Its balanced profile makes it an ideal companion for a wide range of dishes, from sushi and sashimi to rich, savory meats. I personally love it with a steaming bowl of tonkatsu ramen. But whether enjoyed on a quiet evening or shared with friends, Japanese Harmony elevates any occasion. We encourage you to give it a try. Let us know what you think!

Cocktail Corner
The Hibiki Harmony Highball

I call it the H3. It’s easy, yeah, but it’s refreshing and light allowing the nuanced flavors of the whisky to shine through. It’s my favorite way to go with Japanese Harmony.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Hibiki Japanese Harmony

• 4-6 oz chilled soda water

• Ice

• Lemon twist or peel for garnish

Let’s make it!

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.

2. Pour the Hibiki Japanese Harmony over the ice.

3. Gently add the chilled soda water to the glass.

4. Stir lightly to combine.

5. Garnish with a lemon twist or peel.

We hope you found some harmony of your own this week. If you need to reach us, have feedback, or have a topic you would like to see, please let us know at [email protected]