Description
The legendary Hibiki represents true harmony. Hibiki, meaning resonance in Japanese, speaks to the soul and emotions of the most discerning whisky lover. Numerous types of pure single malt whiskies ageing in various types of casks, including Mizunara, a very rare Japanese oak, all combine to create a full orchestra of flavours and aromas.
The Hibiki 17 is a very complete whisky. It is exceptionally easy to drink while at the same time remaining complex and somewhat alluring – there is an elusive quality to the taste and finish that is hard to pin down. A fantastic Japanese blend, spicy and sophisticated, this is great for catching people out at blind tastings.
The Hibiki 17-Year-Old was awarded the Gold Medal (Best in Class) at the International Wine and Spirits Competition 2007, the Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2005, and the Gold Medal at the International Spirits Challenge 2009, 2012 and 2013. It has a rating of 84.5 in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2012.
Tasting Note by MasterOfMalt.com
The nose is quite full. There are notes of honey and wax, resin and oak. There are notes of gentle smoke and cacao, hints of cooked fruit and a nutty note. The palate is sweet and rich. There are crisp notes of mixed peels, raisin and custard with a little zest and plenty of oak. The finish is long with notes of oak and cocoa and sherried peels.
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Tasting Notes By Martine Nouet of Whisky Magazine
Nose: Beeswax, polished floor, church bench, candle wax. A tar hint in the back. When aerated, opens up on citrussy notes and barley sugar before a wave of vanilla brings in a sweet brine.
Palate: Smooth, mellow. Velvety. Oak and citrus fruit are intertwined in an elegant two step dance.
Finish: Medium, smooth, hardening up on a more assertive oaky note. Touch of bitter chocolate.
Comment: An elegant and satisfying dram. Well educated, in good quality casks for sure. 82/100
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Tasting Notes By Dave Broom of Whisky Magazine
Nose: Ripe soft and pillow like with hints of smoke and toasty wood. Citrus leaf, cocoa, cooked apricot, ripe banana, hazelnut giving a crunch.
Palate: Toffee sweetness stretches along the palate. Very clean and clear. Sweet with sultana and cherry.
Finish: Long and silky.
Comment: Relaxed and laid back. This is excellent blending. 85/100