In a remarkable launch that underscores the tradition and excellence of Japanese whisky, Suntory has unveiled its Hibiki 40 Years Old, a rare gem in the world of super-premium spirits. Released globally on October 3, only 400 bottles of this illustrious whisky will be available to international consumers, each priced at a staggering $35,000. This limited availability not only enhances its desirability but also cements Hibiki 40’s status as a collector’s dream and a testament to the artistry involved in its creation.
At the heart of Hibiki 40 Years Old lies the embodiment of Japanese whisky craftsmanship: the meticulous art of blending. Suntory’s founder, Shinjiro Torii, pioneered this approach in the 1920s, forging a whisky culture in a country where the spirit was scarcely known. While many distilleries around the world leaned into the single malt tradition, Torii’s vision was to create complex flavors through innovative blending techniques. Over the decades, Suntory has established a solid foundation with its three distilleries—Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita—each contributing unique character and quality to their products. Hibiki, a blend that represents Suntory’s dedication to blended whiskies, captures the essence of this rich heritage.
Hibiki 40 Years Old not only reflects historical precedence but also offers a rich tapestry of flavors that elevate it above its predecessors. Shinji Fukuyo, Suntory’s chief blender, shed light on this exquisite blend during the launch event in New York, referring to its nuanced profile as reminiscent of “patina” found in ancient libraries and temples. Such vivid imagery emphasizes the depth and complexity that 40 years of aging can impart.
This extraordinary blend comprises five distinct whiskies, each lending its character: the Yamazaki aged in American white oak barrels (1978 and 1983 vintages) sets a foundational flavor, while lightly peated Hakushu (1981) and grain whisky from Chita (1979) inject smokiness and sweetness. The Spanish sherry cask and Mizunara Japanese oak cask whiskies from Yamazaki provide intricate layers and finish. Fukuyo describes the aroma—a delicate medley of Japanese loquat, dry lemon peel, and clove—coupled with a palate experience that brings forth pure acacia honey and dry figs, all culminating in a hauntingly aromatic aftertaste.
Embracing the artistry of Japanese heritage, the packaging of Hibiki 40 Years Old is as sophisticated as the whisky it contains. The crystal glass bottle, crafted by Kagami Crystal—an esteemed name that serves the Japanese imperial family—features 30 facets, enhancing its luminous appeal. The intricately hand-carved cap and the box adorned in traditional maki-e, complete with mother-of-pearl inlay and gold lacquer, pay homage to the country’s storied artistic traditions. These aesthetic elements enhance the experience, providing another layer to what makes Hibiki 40 Years Old not just a whisky, but a collector’s artifact.
In light of recent explosive growth in the Japanese whisky industry, Suntory and other established brands face challenges surrounding authenticity and credibility. The meteoric rise in popularity, particularly following Jim Murray’s accolade of Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask as the world’s best whisky in 2015, led to an influx of new entrants in the market. However, not all new brands embody the spirit of true Japanese whisky; some have strayed into questionable authenticity by bottling whisky produced outside Japan.
As a response, the Japan Spirits and Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA) has implemented rigorous standards for what constitutes “Japanese whisky.” These regulations dictate essential ingredients, production practices, and geographical requirements, thereby safeguarding the legacy of genuine Japanese whisky. As of April, these standards are officially in effect, ensuring that consumers can rely on labels for authenticity, thereby enhancing the integrity of the industry and protecting its storied reputation.
Suntory, as the pioneer of the Japanese whisky industry, is poised to maintain its leadership position, continuing to build upon a century of craftsmanship and innovation. Hibiki 40 Years Old serves as a powerful testament to this legacy, marrying time-honored techniques with exquisite artistry. Fukuyo expresses hope for the future of the industry, citing a vision of sustained growth and prosperity. Ultimately, Hibiki 40 is not merely a whisky; it is a historical artifact that encapsulates the devotion, tradition, and evolution of Japanese whisky, destined to be revered by generations to come.