Harmony - a rather apt word to describe this well-balanced Japanese blended whisky from the Hibiki range. Hibiki Japanese Harmony is made with malt whiskies from the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries, as well as grain whisky from the Chita distillery. The whiskies are drawn from five different types of cask, including American white oak casks, sherry casks and Mizunara oak casks. An elegant expression, with wafts of honey, orange, a herbaceous touch or two, and light oak.
Red berries, green apple and layers of rich honey.
Melted butter and caramelised dates. A hint of fragrant sandalwood develops into warming, oaky spice.
Brown sugar, citrus peels, white grape, and black pepper.
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The initial nose is I think oak and orange together. Followed by more pronounced orange and peppery oak, which is in turn followed by notes of vanilla from the depths. There isn't even the barest hint of alcohol on the nose. The palate is again oak and oranges, followed by orange candy, with some medicinal orange notes. There are only the barest hints of alcohol here, and barely any bite, until the finish. The finish is dry with some hints of toffee showing up in an airing of oranges.
Pricier than some great single malts (Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Arran), but this is a beautiful blend. Fruity, complex, smoky, and smooth with a pleasant, numbing bite at the finish. Think of a smokier, fruitier version of Arran 10.
Dismissed by many due to its price point as a blend - don't overlook this incredibly light, smooth and floral whisky. Less sweet, more fruity (orange, spice, wood cone through) - don't let the snobs put you off with their wearisome complaints that it 'lacks in complexity' and is 'too sweet'. On the contrary, I'd say this is pure, understated complexity and elegance. Give it a chance - you won't be disappointed.
