Hibiki 17 Years is a Japanese blended whisky from Suntory, combining single malt and grain whisky. It is aged 17 years in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry oak casks, and bottled at 43% ABV.
The cereal side is well-aged, mellow, and slightly racy, while the oak-driven side offers deep almond and hazelnut notes and a lightly sweet, whipped cream finish that ties it all together like a nice ice cream sundae. Could be a touch punchier, but overall it’s a great way to end an evening.
The taste has a smooth buildup of clove, chili powder, and cinnamon spices balanced well by honey, banana, vanilla, and a hint of mango underneath. The finish is long and smooth with subtle spices and hints of banana and coconut. Excellent!
I’m not aware of any special aging casks (other than the ex-bourbon casks that most world whiskies use for the majority of their stocks), so the blend itself gets to shine through. Excellent.
There is also an earthy, salty character, like a blue cheese or a Highland single malt. A bit of water brings out some chocolate. Finish is exceptionally warm and soothing.
