If I had not been generously gifted a sample bottle of Hibiki 17, I would not be reviewing it today. It ticks few of my favourite boxes. BUT…
Hibiki 17 was first brought to the market in 1989 by the Japanese giant, Suntory. Hibiki means echo or resonance in Japanese. However, the drink really shot to fame in the 2003 Hollywood blockbuster “Lost In Translation”, staring the wonderful Bill Murray. His character was brought over from America to feature in some billboard adverts.
Between 2005 and 2016, Hibiki 17 won a string of international gold awards. And then the rumours started to emerge. Due to a lack of stock – the result of a downturn in the market from years previous, Habiki 17 was to be discontinued. Sales ceased in the last quarter of 2018. Today, 2024, it is no longer featured on the official company website.
We are talking about a blend. There are at least 30 different whiskies and several grains. The casks were primarily bourbon, although it is assumed that some sherry casks were also used. Nothing unusual there.
So why does the dream live on? Why is the price of any bottle available in the same range as a stunning 25 or 30 year old single malt?
Nose: Lemon, slight pepper inflection, some rich plums with possibly a hint of light smoke.
Palate: WOW! Refreshing, like a summer cordial on a hot day. Lemon curd, biscuity, Easy texture. Did you say this is only 43%? No way!
Finish: Relaxingly fruity. I cannot recall the last time I reached so quickly for a second taste of a whisky new to me.
(BTW, I tried it with a drop of water, which did not have any positive influence for me).
Would I buy it again?
- I never bought this offering
- You bet, immediately, – if it was available and in my price range.
- I would bring this to all our whisky tastings
Thanks AS! You know who you are.
