A symphony of decades.
Hibiki 21 is not just a blend—it’s a masterclass in balance, a gentle crescendo of flavor and craftsmanship that whispers of harmony. This is the story of the bottle that redefined Japanese whisky—a celebration of harmony, timeless elegance, and the art of blending.
Prologue: A Tribute to Time and Resonance
Launched in 1989 to mark Suntory’s 90th anniversary, Hibiki—meaning “resonance”—has become a global icon. Among its expressions, the 21-year-old stands as a triumph. Quiet in presentation, yet profound in effect, Hibiki 21 layers malt and grain whiskies from Suntory’s Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita distilleries, all aged for over two decades in five distinct casks. The result? A whisper of harmony turned into a masterpiece.
Scene 1: A Global Virtuoso
From 2010 through 2019, Hibiki 21 collected World Whiskies Awards six times and earned the International Spirits Challenge Trophy four years running. In 2017, it was crowned the ISC’s Supreme Champion Spirit—blindly selected from 1,480 entries. Each award underscored its global stature as a harmoniously crafted masterpiece.
Scene 2: The Art of Blending
Hibiki 21 marries malt whiskies matured in sherry butts and Japanese Mizunara oak with pure grain whiskies. The nose offers honey, dried fruits, citrus peel, sandalwood, and gentle floral notes—a scent so elegant it draws you deeper into the glass. On the palate, dried plums, dark chocolate, caramel, and subtler smoke swirl together in perfect balance. The finish lingers—a toast of spices and sandalwood echoing its trained orchestration.
Scene 3: Harmony Without Compromise
Complex yet cohesive, Hibiki 21 wears its layers softly. Despite its age and prestige, it remains approachable—velvety, not heavy; intricate, not overwhelming. It’s a blend that captivates both newbies and connoisseurs with its quiet sophistication.
Final Scene: A Legacy Bottled
Hibiki 21 is the embodiment of Suntory’s blending philosophy: bring together diverse elements and craft harmony from contrast. It quietly reshaped the perception of Japanese whisky—proving that elegance can carry weight, and harmony can command attention. It is a legend in balance.
🥃 What You Taste in Hibiki 21
- Elegance in layers: honey, dried fruit, citrus, sandalwood, floral
- Balanced structure: smooth, nuanced, with a warm, lingering finish
- A global icon: prestige without pretense; harmony that resonates