Hibiki 17 Year Old A world renowned Japanese blend, Hibiki 17 Year Old is made with aged malt and grain whiskies from Suntory's distilleries. Initially released in 1989, the blend is matured in Japanese mizunara oak casks at Yamazaki. Hibiki means harmony, which has certainly been achieved in this wonderful and iconic blend. Tasting Note by The Chaps at Master of Malt Nose Quite full. There are notes of honey and wax, resin and oak. There are notes of gentle smoke and cacao, hints of cooked fruit and a nutty note. Palate Sweet and rich. There are crisp notes of mixed peels, raisin and custard with a little zest and plenty of oak. Finish Long with notes of oak and cocoa and sherried peels. Hakushu 12 Year Old This wonderful peated Japanese single malt whisky hails from Hakushu distillery, owned by Suntory. The distillery resides in the forests of Mt. Kaikomagatake, with the original Hakushu distillery built in 1973. Another building was added in 1981, called Hakushu Higashi. Rather fittingly, it boasts a fresh and foresty flavour profile. Critic tasting note: "Fragrant and herbal aromas, with pine needles, basil, green bell pepper, pea pod, black truffle, peppercorn, and smoke from smoldering dry mosses and wood shavings. It’s very smooth and refreshing, with pear, peppermint, lemon, lime, green tea, kiwi, and herbal notes, finishing with chopped mint, more herbal layers, and gentle peppery spice. A unique composition and a quintessential Japanese whisky experience." - 91/100, Whisky Advocate Tasting Note by The Chaps at Master of Malt Nose Toasted barley, seed & nut loaf, chopped almonds and a little bit of barrel char. Hints of milk chocolate and dried grass bring sweetness. Palate Much more fruit on the palate, but it's by no means a sweet whisky. Still rich, herbaceous and grassy, with a waft of smoke along the way. Finish Quite short, though enjoyable with orange peel and a touch of minerals.