Hibiki - bottled around 1990

Hibiki - bottled around 1990, NAS, 40 %

The Hibiki blend from Suntory was launched in 1989 to commemorate Suntory's 90th anniversary. From what I have gathered the bottle I have now purchased, and immediately opened, was bottled around 1990. I was lucky and got this bottle on auction here in Norway, at around NOK 400.

There is currently no Hibiki NAS available to buy in Norway, or any other Hibiki for that matter. In Swden only the Hibiki 12 YO is currently available. I expect there to be more focus on these NAS releases from Suntory going forward though, as we can expect the same development as we have seen from Nikka.

Nose (24/25): Rich and delicate. Lots of red berries, vanilla, home-made vanilla pudding and a slightly fizzy, delightful sweetness. Wow, what a nose! This is just...magic! I could nose this all day, all night, and still ask for more time! I am not sure a young teenage whisky can have a better nose than this.

Taste (22/25): Super smooth! Rich and full! Honey, real butter (tm) and a very oily mouthfeel.  Red berries, caramel, ginger, vanilla, and a hint of perfume.

Finish (21/25): Still very tasty! Does not develop any further, alas. but it still holds firm for a while, and it is true to itself. No compromise here, and no signs of whimpering away.

Balance (23/25): Wow! This has to be one of the very best no age statement (NAS) whiskies I have ever tried. The nose itself is to die for. What a fantastic dram! It is a bit lacking on the finish, but who cares?! This dram dances in circles around the Hibiki 30 YO you can get today!

Score (90/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas