Hibiki 21 Year

I had bought this bottle years back, and finally opened it last night with some friends. First thing that strikes you is the appearance of the bottle itself. Twenty four sides to it, and a heavy weight and feel. The liquid itself is deep mahogany...not sure if coloring is added. Pop open the cork and you immediately smell sandlewood and cherry blossoms. Floral taste. Some incense like you smell in Asian temples. I think that might be effect of the mizunara? Overall, it's a really good dram, worthy of a special occasion. I'm sure I paid much less years ago, but prices now seem to be $500-600...not sure if I'd spend that much on it today, certainly not ' blow your mind' level that warrants anywhere close to that price tag. At $150, a no-brainer 5 stars. But at $500-600...not so sure. On a side note: Do not add water or ice. It kills the floral aromas and sandlewood taste...turns it bitter. Update 12/1: now that bottle is almost empty, oxidation has set in. I had a small taste last night, and got a pronounced sandlewood aroma. Never tasted that in a whisky before, and certainly never smelled it anywhere outside Indian or Buddhist temples

I only had a very small taste of this. Very smooth and tasty. Oak right on the nose and a thick texture that makes the flavor linger. I will say - I had such a small taste that I probably missed many of the subtle flavors in this stellar drink.

Hibiki 21 Year falls victim to unmerited exclusivity while defining how amazing Japanese Whiskey can be. First things first, I love Suntory and I’ve never tried anything from the Hibiki line I didn’t like. These are always well crafted and never cease in creating smiles and beautiful memories. You’ll Instantly find a rich nose, sugary with sherry notes evident. This dram is a tad earthy, highlighting wood, sawdust, dried fruits like plum and dates and an elegant floral aroma. Lowlights reveal vanilla, almond, dried nuts and caramel. The mouth feel is mild to medium bodied with a fine heat. Entry carries a dry finish, approachable and smooth. There’s no mistaking the aging on this one. The finish stays a while and delivers on the satisfaction you’re hoping for. Simply put, this is definitively Hibiki and it’s amazing. All that said, at $500 a bottle, this is way too expensive. That price point prohibits many from this experience and while it is incredible, one can find similar experiences at less than half the cost. (FWF $10 (40) Dram [6th] share #46)