Hibiki 12 Years Old Returns to Global Travel Retail After 11 Years

(Photo: House of Suntory)

Hibiki 12 Years Old is making its return to global travel retail for the first time in 11 years, with The House of Suntory introducing a newly reimagined version of the Japanese whisky exclusively for airport retailers.

The new Hibiki 12 Years Old Travel Exclusive Series features a custom bottle design inspired by Japanese nature and a blend reimagined by fifth-generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo.

The expression brings together whiskies from Suntory’s Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries, with whiskies matured in American oak, Spanish oak and Mizunara oak. According to the company, the blend is designed to highlight Hibiki’s signature elegance and harmony.

“Hibiki 12 Years Old has always held a special place within The House of Suntory portfolio, and we’ve seen continued appreciation for this expression from whisky enthusiasts around the world,” Masaki Morimoto, president of The House of Suntory, said in a news release.

The travel-exclusive release is available in a 700-milliliter bottle with a recommended retail price of approximately $188, according to the company.

The whisky is available through international departures and select arrivals stores at major airport hubs, including Singapore Changi Airport and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport.

Other listed markets include airports serving London, Incheon, Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Delhi, Mumbai, Paris, Doha, Los Angeles, Frankfurt, Sydney, Melbourne, Taipei, Amsterdam, Bangkok, São Paulo, Bangalore, Panama City, San Francisco and Hainan.

Design Inspired by Japanese Nature

The new packaging takes inspiration from Kacho-Fugetsu, a traditional Japanese concept centered on the beauty of flowers, birds, wind and the moon.

The design also incorporates flowing forms inspired by water and seasonal motifs intended to reflect Japan’s changing seasons.

Hibiki’s distinctive 24-faceted bottle remains at the center of the design. The 24 facets represent Japan’s 24 traditional microseasons.

The updated bottle also features the Marumado motif, a circular window found in traditional Japanese architecture that frames views of nature.

Hibiki 12 Tasting Notes

The House of Suntory recommends enjoying Hibiki 12 Years Old over a “Marugori” hand-carved ice ball.

The whisky is described as golden amber in color, with notes of persimmon, jasmine, cardamom, orange and sandalwood on the nose. The palate is said to bring spiced orange peel, toasted cinnamon and butterscotch, followed by a rich, long finish with a spiced, soothing aftertaste.