Whisky: Hibiki Blossom Harmony
Producer: Beam-Suntory
Distillery: Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita
Whisky Type: Japanese Blend. Bottled in 2022
Age: NAS
ABV: 43%
Aged in Cask: American Oak, ex-Oloroso sherry, Mizunara oak, and finished in Sakura (cherry blossom wood from Japan) casks.
Price Range: $$$$
Hibiki Blossom Harmony is a seasonal, limited edition blend from Beam-Suntory. The series started in 2021 as a collector’s series. The word Hibiki means «resonance» or «echo» in Japanese, conveying a connection with nature, those who created it, and the consumer.
Hibiki Blossom Harmony combines whiskies that matured in American oak, ex-Oloroso sherry casks, and Mizunara oak. The difference from the standard Hibiki Harmony lies in the Sakura (cherry blossom oak from Japan) cask finishing, where it rests for an unspecified period.
The whiskies in this blend come from all three Beam-Suntory Distilleries (Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita). The malts for the blend come from Yamazaki and Hakushu, and the grain whisky (any other grain other than malted barley) from Chita.
Notes for Hibiki Blossom Harmony
Nose: Inviting and delicate aromas of vanilla, oak, and flowers.
Palate: The arrival is sweet and delicate. The raisin, honey, and vanilla flavors are delicious and transition well into a more oak-driven experience.
Finish: A medium finish with a touch of sandalwood and incense coming from the Mizunara oak.
Conclusion
The balance of the whiskies in the blend is evident. Sweet and spicy flavors are graciously combined to make this blend different from the standard Hibiki Harmony. I prefer this expression over the standard Hibiki Harmony because it focuses more on balancing the floral, sweet and spicy notes. The standard Hibiki harmony is less gentle with more oak and bitter flavors.
Those who enjoy nuances will enjoy it. The price range is between $250 and $350. Cheers!
Score: 3.75/5⭐
Legend
$50 or less $
$51-$100 $$
$101-$150 $$$
$151 or more $$$$