Hibiki 40 Year Old. Photograph courtesy of The House of Suntory. Cast your mind back to 1984: the Summer Olympics were buzzing in Los Angeles, the artist Prince released his hit album Purple Rain, and Australia introduced the one-dollar coin. But perhaps one of the most significant moments, quietly unfolding in Japan, was the beginning of the ageing process for Hibiki 40 Year Old, now the oldest blended whisky in the history of The House of Suntory.
The renowned pioneer of Japanese whisky, celebrated for its House of Master Blenders and the Art of Blending, is showcasing its finest work with the new release. With only 400 bottles available, this ultra-luxurious whisky features an extraordinary blend of five key types of whisky — Yamazaki, Hakushu Malt, and Chita Grain — sourced from Suntory’s acclaimed distilleries. Each whisky has matured for over 40 years, meticulously combined to create a symphony of flavours and aromas. On the nose, you’ll experience notes of Japanese loquat, dry lemon peel, and clove. The palate reveals rich flavours of pure acacia honey and dry fig, culminating in a beautifully aromatic finish.
Behind this blend is Suntory’s chief blender, Shinji Fukuyo, who notes that the elegance of Hibiki is complemented by a sense of comfort, like that of an old temple, and a wasabi patina because of the long ageing process.
“I would like people to enjoy the pure aroma that has been sharpened over the years … and the nostalgic warm feeling that accompanies them.”
Hibiki 40 Year Old is a culmination of decades of blending expertise, passed down from one master blender to the next. This whisky embodies generations of craftsmanship, and to further add to this testament, the brand has enlisted renowned Japanese washi artist, Eriko Horiki — behind large-scale installations include a stunning three-metre washi piece at the Tokyo Geriatric Hospital and a geometric ceiling at Kyoto Station – to hand craft the washi label on the box. Crafted from kozo (paper mulberry) and mitsumata fieers, the label reflects Horiki’s deep connection to the brand; he also designed the label for Hibiki back in 1989.
The box is made from 12 different types of Japanese wood like pine and zelkova, features 12 faces, symbolising the 12 months of the year. Inside, the crystal glass bottle is a work of art in itself, boasting 30 intricately crafted facets and adorned with traditional makie, mother of pearl inlay, and gold lacquer, paying homage to Japan’s rich heritage.
This exquisite whisky not only honours the legacy of The House of Suntory but also commemorates its recent milestone, as last year it celebrated 100 years of pioneering Japanese spirits.
Hibiki 40 Year Old will be released on October 4 and cost $75,000AUD per bottle, limited to 400 bottles. house.suntory.com
