TL;DR

Suntory released Hibiki 40, its oldest retail blend. Crafted by Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo from rare whiskies aged over 40 years from Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita, this $35,000 masterpiece sets a new luxury benchmark for Japanese whisky.

Suntory has introduced Hibiki 40, a limited-edition blend crafted from rare whiskies aged for over four decades. As the oldest retail blend created by Shinji Fukuyo, Suntory’s fifth-generation chief blender, this release sets a new benchmark in luxury Japanese whisky.

The Art of Blending Old Whiskies

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Hibiki 40 is a blend of five distinct whiskies from three Suntory distilleries: Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita. Fukuyo’s challenge was balancing the depth of older whiskies while maintaining the bright, fruity notes usually found in younger blends. This masterpiece features:

  • Yamazaki malt whiskies (1978, 1983): Aged in American oak casks, providing body and brightness.
  • Hakushu lightly peated malt (1981): Adds crispness and subtle smokiness.
  • Chita grain whiskies (1979, 1981): Contribute sweetness and texture.
  • Yamazaki malt (1980, ex-Sherry Spanish oak): Infuses rich sweetness and nuttiness.
  • Yamazaki malt (1983, Mizunara oak): Offers a touch of spice and sandalwood.

The blend was harmonized for six months, resulting in a whisky bottled at 43% ABV.

A Chief Blender’s Journey

For Fukuyo, blending is about precision and intuition. “Tuning takes time,” he explains, but the process starts with a clear target in mind. His dedication to consistency extends to his daily routine, which hasn’t changed in 20 years, helping him maintain a keen palate.

Every eight to ten years, Suntory’s cask management ensures the aging process doesn’t over-mature the whiskies. This meticulous approach helped Fukuyo build the Hibiki 40 blend, with a mental map of every cask, ensuring each selection was perfect.

A Testament to Japanese Craftsmanship

Priced at $35,000, Hibiki 40 is encased in a stunning 12-sided wood box, crafted from native Japanese woods, with a label designed by artist Eriko Horiki. The faceted crystal bottle features intricate maki-e lacquer and inlay, reflecting the artistry that defines the House of Suntory.

“Hibiki 40 is about sophisticated, antique flavors,” says Fukuyo. “Like walking into an old library, it evokes an emotional, timeless atmosphere.”

With Hibiki 40, Suntory has achieved a new milestone, solidifying Japanese whisky’s place in the luxury segment and marking a century-long journey of excellence.

Discover more about whisky casks and promotions at whiskybulletin.com.

Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is Hibiki 40?

Hibiki 40 is a limited-edition, luxury Japanese whisky blend from Suntory, crafted from rare whiskies aged for over 40 years.Who created the Hibiki 40 blend?

It was created by Shinji Fukuyo, Suntory's fifth-generation chief blender, who meticulously selected and balanced the components.What whiskies are in the Hibiki 40 blend?

It blends five distinct whiskies from Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita distilleries, including malts aged in American oak, Spanish oak, and Mizunara oak casks.How much does Hibiki 40 cost?

Hibiki 40 is priced at $35,000 and comes in a specially crafted 12-sided wood box and faceted crystal bottle.

Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is Hibiki 40?

Hibiki 40 is a limited-edition, luxury Japanese whisky blend from Suntory, crafted from rare whiskies aged for over 40 years.Who created the Hibiki 40 blend?

It was created by Shinji Fukuyo, Suntory's fifth-generation chief blender, who meticulously selected and balanced the components.What whiskies are in the Hibiki 40 blend?

It blends five distinct whiskies from Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita distilleries, including malts aged in American oak, Spanish oak, and Mizunara oak casks.How much does Hibiki 40 cost?

Hibiki 40 is priced at $35,000 and comes in a specially crafted 12-sided wood box and faceted crystal bottle.