Hibiki Japanese Harmony replaced the beloved Hibiki 12 Year Old. Why? Because there was no longer enough stock to meet demand. This means Harmony is younger overall on average, though whiskies from 12–20 years are likely present in small amounts.Hibiki Japanese Harmony is made up of ten different malt and grain whiskies aged in five different types of oak, bottled at 43% ABV. The malt whiskies come from the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries, with grain whisky from the Chita distillery. The whiskies are drawn from five different types of cask, including American white oak casks, sherry casks, and the incredibly rare Mizunara (Japanese) oak casks.Tasting NotesNose: Floral notes of rose and orange blossom, alongside honey and fresh citrus. There's also vanilla and a slight sandalwood aroma that becomes more noticeable as it sits in the glass — clean and well-defined, though fully integrated. Wafts of honey, orange, a herbaceous touch, and light oak.Palate: The texture is silky and smooth — a standout quality of Japanese whisky. Flavors include honey sweetness and orange, followed by white peach and apricot, with some cinnamon spice and milk chocolate in the middle. The oak is present but restrained, complementing rather than dominating. Red berries, green apple, layers of rich honey, melted butter, and caramelized dates. A hint of fragrant sandalwood develops into warming, oaky spice. Brown sugar, citrus peels, white grape, and black pepper. Finish: A fine fruity bitterness that disappears in a cloud of spicy pepper. Lingering notes of honeyed malt, vanilla, apricot, and a faint touch of brine.
