Hibiki Japanese Harmony

What it is

The no age statement Hibiki, launched in 2015 as the age-stated bottles began disappearing. Bottled at 43% in the 24 faceted decanter that represents Japan's 24 micro seasons. It's the volume product in the range and the one that keeps Hibiki on shelves.

Where it comes from

Suntory confirms that Hibiki meets the Japan Spirits and Liqueurs Makers Association labelling standard and that all exported Suntory whisky is 100% distilled, matured and bottled in Japan. No imported whisky. The blend draws on Yamazaki and Hakushu single malts with Chita grain whisky.

How it's made

Suntory describes Hibiki as a blend across five cask types, with American white oak, sherry and Japanese mizunara among them, though it doesn't publish the recipe for Harmony specifically. Being an NAS blend, it can be built from younger stock than the age statements, which is the whole reason it exists and also the reason it's lighter than what it replaced. Chita grain is the backbone.

What to expect

Floral and citrusy, with honey, orange peel and a soft, short finish. The mizunara character is present but faint, since it takes decades to develop properly. It's elegant rather than deep, and it works very well over a large piece of ice or in a highball.

How it compares

Against the discontinued Hibiki 12 and 17 it's lighter and simpler, and the comparison is unfair to it since it was never meant to replace them. Against Hibiki Blender's Choice, which uses wine casks and older components, Harmony is the leaner one. Against Suntory Toki, the cheaper blend, Harmony has more malt in the mix and more going on, but Toki is better value if you're mixing.