![]() ![]() “There have been many experiments with malt and grain whisky components, and we found that there was a special alchemy between the grain whiskies and the Sakura cask. “I have been mesmerized by the Sakura cask for the last five years now due to its symbolism, but also because of its distinctive, subtly floral and spicy aroma and flavor notes,” says Fukuyo. The Sakura cask was one that intrigued Fifth Generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo. Constantly pushing the boundaries of what Japanese Whisky can be, the House of Suntory continues to explore and experiment with various wood types. Hibiki is a harmonious blend of various malt and grain whiskies from Suntory’s Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries. The expression is bottled at 43 percent ABV and has a suggested retail price of $160 USD. This limited-edition bottle will be available beginning in October in select global markets including in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, France, Spain, Austria, United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, Italy, Turkey, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. Hibiki Blossom Harmony captures this joyful spirit by blending a rare selection of whiskies finished in Sakura wood casks with diverse matured malt and grain whiskies to create this particular Hibiki. The Sakura Blossom season in early spring has always been an occasion for celebration in Japan, with many gathering around the beautiful flowering Sakura trees that inspire the Japanese to appreciate life as it blooms. ![]() Book here.The 2022 Hibiki® Blossom Harmony™ is a limited-edition blend made with whiskies finished in Sakura (cherry blossom) casks, an innovation that pays tribute to a traditional Japanese moment of celebration.ĬHICAGO, IL (October 3, 2022) – The House of Suntory, the founding House of Japanese Whisky, announces the release of Hibiki® Blossom Harmony™, a limited-edition blend featuring whiskies finished in Sakura casks. Goho is located at 53A Duxton Rd, Entrance via RAPPU, Singapore 089517. For an additional $77++, diners can get two Hibiki pairings: a Hibiki Harmony highball served with seasonal appetisers, and Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022 served neat and paired with wagyu short rib or pork jowl with seasonal vegetables, satsumaimo puree, warijoyu jus, and shaved roasted chestnuts. Goho Kaiseki & Bar is also offering the new whisky as an add-on to their omakase menus from now till 30 November 2022. This year’s release can be found in-store at 1855 The Bottle Shop, or online from iShopChangi, Wines ‘n’ Spirits, 1855 The Bottle Shop, Alcohol Delivery, Alcohaul, and Paneco. The 2021 edition costs more from some local online retailers that still stock it. ![]() The Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022 sells for a bargain-basement price of S$1,200, but it is an investment. Kurayoshi Distillery, Mars Shinshu, and Nagahama Distillery also have similarly-styled whiskies. Under its Chita brand, Suntory has a grain whiskey matured in sakura casks for three years. This has encouraged distillers to play native wood like mizunara and sakura. While Scotland has strict laws dictating the type of oak used in their whisky, Japan’s rules are much looser. The palate is ripe with tropical fruits and warm toast over the sweet-salty tang of sakura mochi, finishing off with bittersweet spicy notes. “It is this special relationship – harmony – that inspired me to create this blend.”Ĭoming in at 43 percent ABV, the whisky opens with a delicate floral bouquet followed by lush honey, orange peel, jasmine, and rich chocolate. “We found that there was a special alchemy between the grain whiskies and the sakura cask,” he said. The wood is also porous, which can cause over-oxidation and leakage.Īfter some experiments, Fukuyo settled on maturing Hibiki’s grain component in sakura casks, which makes up around 20 percent of the overall blend. Sakura cask exerts a strong influence on the whisky, which can be overbearing when not managed properly. “I have been mesmerised by the sakura cask for the last five years now due to its symbolism, but also because of its distinctive, subtly floral and spicy aroma, and flavour notes,” he said.Īccording to Fukuyo, achieving the right balance and blend was challenging. (Image credit: Suntory)įor this expression, fifth generation chief blender Shinji Fukuyo wanted to focus on the wood. Viewing trees in bloom is a popular spring past time, and its leaves are used in the cuisine. The Japanese national flower is integral to the country’s culture. Hibiki Blossom Harmony distinguishes itself from the core range by incorporating sakura, or cherry blossom. ![]()
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