The House of Suntory launches Hibiki 40 Year Old, an ultra-luxury whisky that pushes the boundaries of refinement and celebrates Japanese craftsmanship. This rare release confirms Suntory’s pioneering role in the world of Japanese spirits, with only four hundred bottles worldwide, two of which are available for the Dutch market. The price of this special whisky starts at 35.000 euros per bottle, emphasizing its exclusivity and luxurious character.
Symphony of flavors
The Hibiki 40 Year Old is a masterpiece that comes from over four decades of whisky blending expertise. This blend consists of exceptional whiskies that have matured for over forty years at the renowned distilleries of Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita. Each of these whiskies has been carefully selected and brought together by the master blenders of The House of Suntory, resulting in a refined, layered taste experience. The distinctive flavour of Hibiki 40 Year Old is defined by the complexity of Mizunara Japanese oak, the subtle sweetness of Spanish oak and the soft notes of caramelised cocoa from American oak. The result is an unprecedented smoothness and depth, which emphasises the exceptional quality of the whisky. In addition to the Hibiki 40 Year Old, the brand offers a renowned selection including the Hibiki 21 Year Old and Hibiki Japanese Harmony. These expressions embody Hibiki’s rich heritage and pursuit of excellence, with complex and refined flavour nuances. Hibiki 21 Years Old is not only the most awarded Japanese whisky, but also one of the most distinguished worldwide.
Japanese craftsmanship at its best
The presentation of the Hibiki 40 Year Old is a work of art in itself. The crystal bottle, with thirty facets, symbolizes the thirty years in which Hibiki became an icon of harmony. The bottle is made by a renowned glassmaker who also works for the Japanese Imperial Family. The traditional maki-e technique and the mother-of-pearl inlay, finished with gold lacquer, give the bottle a refined look that honors Japan's rich heritage. The bottle is presented in a luxurious wooden box, made of twelve types of Japanese wood, including pine and zelkova. These twelve types of wood symbolize the months of the year. The box is further decorated with owls and grasses representing the four Japanese seasons, depicted in beautiful maki-e lacquerwork. The unique washi label on the Hibiki 40 Year Old is handmade by renowned Japanese washi artist Eriko Horiki. This collaboration underlines The House of Suntory's respect for traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
Statement of timeless luxury
The Hibiki 40 Year Old is more than a whisky: it is the ultimate collector’s item and a tribute to decades of craftsmanship. From the rarity of its blend and the refinement of its flavours to its meticulously crafted design, this whisky embodies the highest level of luxury. The Hibiki 40 Year Old is a timeless expression of The House of Suntory’s mastery and a symbol of pure elegance and innovation.