Hibiki 30 YO

Hibiki 30 YO, 43 %

During our holiday in Japan there was of course time and opportunities to taste some new (to me) Japanese whiskies, although not many bars had a wide selection of Japanese whiskies actually. The bar at Yamazaki distillery offered some 'standard' whiskies, and in addition some very nice cask samples. Too bad we could not buy the cask samples and bring them back home.

Well, today I will share my thoughts on Hibiki 30 YO which is a blended whisky from Suntory Whisky.

The 30 YO is not available in Norway or Sweden, but both Hibiki 12 YO and 17 YO are available and I would recommend either of them in place of the 30 YO.

Nose (20/25): I was met by the smell of flowers and perfume. After a while a strange mix of light caramel, orange peel, oakiness and grass.

Taste (20/25): At first there was some alcohol on the taste. The oakiness from the smell continued on the taste. Licorice made the taste more full, but other than that it was sugary and watery.

Finish (19/25): Quite a simple finish with perfume, oak and sugar. Not much happening.

Balance (20/25): I really enjoyed both Hibiki 12 YO and 17 YO and had high hopes for the 30 YO. Unfortunately this was not my kind of whisky. Too much perfume and oak.

Score (79/100)

- Tone