The Art of Japanese Whisky

HIBIKI 40 Years Old

in pursuit of perfection

Hibiki is the paragon of Japanese whisky, born in pursuit of perfect harmony through the art of blending. Developed and refined over 100 years at The House of Suntory, this artform reaches its nexus with the release of Hibiki 40 Years Old. This stunning blend comprises five supremely aged whiskies that each offer a taste of ancient Japan to the world.

A New Pinnacle of Japanese Whisky

With the passing of forty seasonal cycles and the care of three generations of Chief Blenders, the whiskies have drawn intense character from Mizunara, Spanish and American oak casks. Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo’s skillful touch has transformed these rich whiskies into an exquisitely subdued blend. The spirit of omotenashi and serenity of Japanese temples finds expression in this delicate composition, where everything is in perfect balance.

Majestic Japanese Craftsmanship

A decorative hibiki 40 bottle cap featuring intricate gold and white designs, showcasing elegance and artistry in its craftsmanship.
A sophisticated label design for Hibiki 40 Year Old Whisky, featuring elegant typography and rich colors.
A bottle of Japanese whisky elegantly placed on a wooden table, showcasing its distinctive label and rich amber color.
A bottle of hibiki 40 whisky is being poured into a glass, showcasing the rich amber liquid flowing smoothly.
A person diligently cleans a wooden surface with a cloth, ensuring it is free of dust and dirt.
A person skillfully tying a knot on a wooden box, demonstrating attention to detail and craftsmanship.

Renowned glassware maker and supplier to the Japanese imperial family, Kagami Crystal, has crafted a 30-faceted bottle decorated with traditional Japanese maki-e, mother-of-pearl inlay, and gold lacquer. The pristine crystal glass and faceted design offers an enchanting view of the golden liquid within.
 

 

This refined attention to detail extends to the outer box, which is made of 12 varieties of Japanese wood and features 12 faces. On the outside, the box is beautifully adorned with delicate flowers and grasses that bring the vibrancy of Japan’s changing seasons to life using maki-e lacquer.

A close-up of a Yamazaki whisky label showcasing its elegant design and distinctive branding elements.
A person hammering the top of stacked wooden barrels in dim lighting. Dust is visible around the hammer.
BLENDING HARMONY

Yamazaki White Oak Casks

1978, 1983

 

Barreled in 1978 and 1983, the aging process contributes an antique-like aroma, complemented with a pleasing creaminess and delicate fruity notes.

A green roof flourishing with plants
Copper stills with 'Spirit' engraved, used for distillation.
BLENDING HARMONY

hakushu lightly peated

1981

 

The direct firing of stills imparts a rich intensity to this whisky. The peat notes are softened and rounded through 42 years of maturation, allowing fruity and herbal aromas to flourish.

A glass of whiskey with multiple out-of-focus glasses in the background.
Looking up at tall white silos with blue trim against a bright blue sky with sunlight peeking through.
BLENDING HARMONY

chita grain whisky

1979, 1981

 

Notes of jasmine, lychee and a smooth sweetness result from the long maturation time. An extremely long, lingering finish is paired with a surprising lightness which softens the presence of Mizunara in Hibiki 40 Years Old. These liquids play a perfect supporting role in the blend.

Amber whiskey in a tulip-shaped glass against a blurred background.
Close-up of a vintage whisky barrel with distillery markings in warm tones.
BLENDING HARMONY

yamazaki spanish oak

1980

 

Intense dark dried fruit notes and high astringency represent a strong Spanish oak character. Due to the intense character of this component, it is used sparingly to add depth, complexity and texture to the blend.

Person sitting among rows of barrels in a dim wine cellar.
People in lab coats inspecting whiskey glasses at a distillery.
BLENDING HARMONY

yamazaki mizunara

1983

 

Intense and rich, this whisky imparts a uniquely Japanese character from the Mizunara oak. Aromatic, spicy, lingering and textured, the liquid coats the tongue with incense. This whisky is strongly present in the aroma of Hibiki 40 Years Old and an essential piece in Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo’s vision of creating a remarkably Japanese whisky.

A serene waterfall surrounded by colorful autumn foliage.
Person examining a glass of amber liquid with wine barrels in the background.

harnessing nature’s resonance

Hibiki, meaning “resonance”, honors the harmony between nature and Japanese people that embodies the heart of The House of Suntory.

Inspired by the 24 seasons of Japan, our Hibiki range captures nature’s subtleties and riches through the art of blending. As nature runs its course, it infuses each of the liquids with enchanting qualities that resonate deep within.

Embodiment of Japanese Luxury

A New Era of Japanese Whisky Begins

Tasting Notes

bottle of whisky beside a glass of red wine, elegantly displayed on a wooden surface, showcasing a refined beverage selection.

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Hibiki 40 Years Old is a groundbreaking Japanese whisky, born from over a century of dedication to craft at The House of Suntory. This is why Hibiki 40 proudly meets the standards set forth by the Japan Spirits and Liqueurs Makers Association for labeling whiskies ‘Japanese’. The next century of Japanese whisky starts here.