A legacy in a bottle: Suntory’s Hibiki 40 Year Old redefines luxury whisky
By BRANDVOICE
“Sometimes you don’t need an occasion. Sometimes the bottle is the occasion.” For Suntory, the release of Hibiki 40 Year Old isn’t just another ultra-rare whisky—it’s the culmination of decades of craftsmanship and passion.
BRANDVOICE
This release marks a significant moment in Suntory’s history, bringing together the finest aged whiskies from its iconic distilleries—Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita. Each whisky in the blend has matured for over 40 years, a feat that speaks to the patience and meticulous attention to detail that is the hallmark of Suntory’s approach.
Australian ambassador for the House of Suntory James Buntin, who has worked with some of the biggest names in whisky, says Hibiki 40 is the ultimate blend of heritage and innovation. “Hibiki 40 Year Old is a statement of what Japanese whisky can achieve,” he says. “It’s about balance—every whisky in the blend has to play its part, like an orchestra.”
But blending whiskies of this calibre is no simple task. The process requires a delicate balance of flavours, with each whisky contributing something unique yet complementary. “It’s about sensitivity,” Buntin explains. “Each whisky brings its own character. But if one note is too loud, it throws everything off.”
Suntory’s legacy is one of marrying tradition with experimentation. Founded by Shinjiro Torii, the brand’s journey began when Torii established Yamazaki Distillery, the first malt whisky distillery in Japan, just outside of Kyoto. His vision was clear from the start: to create a whisky that captured the Japanese palate, blending the art of whisky-making with Japanese precision. Over the years, Suntory has expanded its influence, with its second distillery, Hakushu, located in the Japanese Alps, and Chita, known for its delicate grain whisky, becoming integral to its blends.
With Hibiki 40, Suntory showcases the expertise that has been passed down through generations of master blenders. Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo spearheaded this release, and the result is a harmonious blend that embodies the essence of Suntory’s philosophy—precision, balance, and harmony. “You’ve got to keep the delicacy in it,” Buntin adds. “You don’t have lots of it to work with, so the precision and clarity in blending these whiskies together is essential. You need to understand where each single malt fits and what part it plays in the symphony.”
One of the standout characteristics of Hibiki 40 is the influence of Mizunara oak, a rare and indigenous Japanese wood that has long been associated with Suntory’s finest whiskies. Mizunara oak imparts distinctive aromas of sandalwood and incense, giving the whisky a uniquely Japanese profile. “The Mizunara oak is the note that lingers,” Buntin says. “It’s what makes Hibiki distinctly Japanese. You won’t find these flavours in whiskies from anywhere else in the world.”
The care taken to select and blend the individual components of Hibiki 40 is matched by the painstaking process of aging. Maturation plays a critical role in shaping the whisky’s character, and with every passing year, the liquid evolves. The angel’s share—the portion of whisky that evaporates during aging—claims around 2% of the liquid each year, leaving behind a whisky that is incredibly concentrated and rich.
For those who are fortunate enough to open a bottle of Hibiki 40, Buntin hopes they embark on a sensory journey. The whisky opens with aromas of Japanese loquat, dry lemon peel, and clove, followed by a palate that reveals acacia honey and dry fig. The finish is long and lingering, with hints of Mizunara oak adding a layer of complexity.
“In Japan, there’s this belief that everything becomes more refined with time—whether it’s people, objects, or whisky… Hibiki 40 Year Old is a perfect example of that. It’s a whisky that reflects generations of expertise.”
While the price tag of $75,000 AUD places Hibiki 40 at the upper echelon of luxury whiskies, Buntin is quick to point out that the value lies not just in the price, but in the rarity and craftsmanship that defines the whisky. “The price reflects the care and expertise that’s gone into making it,” he says. “But beyond that, it’s 40 years of dedication, patience, and artistry in every bottle.”
The bottle and packaging of Hibiki 40 are also works of art. Designed by Kagami Crystal, the bottle features 30 facets that represent the 30 years since the creation of the Hibiki range. Decorated with mother-of-pearl inlay and gold lacquer, the bottle is a nod to Japanese craftsmanship, while the wooden box is crafted from 12 different types of Japanese wood, each representing a month of the year.
For Buntin, the release of Hibiki 40 is not just about the past, but also a glimpse into the future of Japanese whisky. “This isn’t just another whisky release,” he says. “It’s a celebration of everything Suntory stands for—tradition, innovation, and craftsmanship. We’re continuing to push the boundaries of what Japanese whisky can be.”
If you’re lucky enough to source a bottle, Buntin’s advice is simple.
“Open it, drink it, and enjoy it. Too many people hold onto bottles, and they end up outlasting their owners. Sometimes the whisky is the occasion.”
James Buntin
The ultimate dining experience
For those looking to experience the full splendour of Hibiki 40 Year Old, The House of Suntory is hosting an exclusive launch event on October 24, 2024, at Oncore by Clare Smyth, Crown Sydney. This event promises to be an extraordinary evening of luxury, whisky mastery, and gastronomic indulgence, set against the backdrop of Sydney’s stunning harbour views.
Guests will enjoy a five-course menu designed by the acclaimed chef, perfectly paired with Suntory’s Hibiki portfolio. The evening will also feature an interactive exploration of the senses, culminating in a tasting of Hibiki 40 Year Old, a whisky decades in the making. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to engage with master blenders and fellow connoisseurs, making it a truly unforgettable night.
With limited seats available, this event is a must for collectors and whisky enthusiasts alike. Tickets are priced at $1,800 per person. To secure your place at this momentous occasion, visit creatingharmonyhibiki40.eventbrite.com.au.
