Hibiki 21 Year Japanese Whisky

Product Description

Hibiki 21 Year: The Living Legend of Japanese Whisky

Hibiki 21 Year is widely regarded as the epitome of luxury from the House of Suntory, often called the paragon of Japanese whisky. Released alongside the now largely discontinued Hibiki 17 Year in 1989 to mark Suntory's 90th anniversary, the 21 Year has gone on to become one of the most decorated blended whiskies ever produced, winning multiple World Whisky of the Year designations and Whisky Advocate's Whisky of the Year, along with Gold Medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

How Hibiki 21 Year Is Made

This whisky draws together single malts from Yamazaki and Hakushu with ultra-aged grain whisky from the Chita distillery, each matured separately before blending. A significant portion of the blend spends extended time in prized Japanese Mizunara casks, alongside sherry and traditional oak, developing the depth and integration that sets Hibiki 21 apart from a conventional blend. It's bottled at 43% ABV, presented in Hibiki's distinctive black label with gold lettering and the kanji for "Hibiki."

Tasting Notes

Nose: Sandalwood, honey, and dried flowers, with brighter notes of apple and vanilla.

Palate: Velvety smooth, with raisin, dark cherry, dark chocolate, caramelized oak, orange peel, almonds, and a whisper of Mizunara spice.

Finish: Long, warm, and beautifully balanced, with sweet dried fruit, wood notes, and a gentle trace of smokiness fading into spicy warmth.

Food Pairings

The dark cherry and chocolate character in Hibiki 21 Year pairs beautifully with a flourless chocolate torte, dried figs, or a spiced fruitcake. Its honey and orange peel notes also complement aged Gouda or roasted almonds.

Serving Suggestions

Hibiki 21 Year is not a cocktail ingredient, it deserves unhurried, neat sipping in a tulip-shaped glass or a Glencairn, letting its layered fruit, spice, and Mizunara character fully unfold over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which distilleries contribute to Hibiki 21? Yamazaki and Hakushu single malts, along with ultra-aged grain whisky from Chita.

What casks is this whisky aged in? A combination of Mizunara, sherry, and traditional oak casks.

What proof is Hibiki 21? 43% ABV (86 proof).

Has Hibiki 21 won any awards? Yes, including multiple World Whisky of the Year titles and Whisky Advocate's Whisky of the Year.

Explore More

Looking for more from this legendary Japanese whisky house? Shop the full Suntory collection for Hibiki Harmony, Yamazaki, and Hakushu expressions, or browse our complete Japanese Whiskey collection for more from Japan's top distilleries.

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