Japan: Suntory releases 12 year old Hibiki whisky

18 May, 2009

Japan: Suntory has released a 12 year old expression of Hibiki whisky.

This is the first time Suntory has launched a whisky outside of Japan.

The whisky is aged in Japanese plum liqueur ‘Umeshu’ casks and blended from a variety of malt and grain whiskies. It is filtered through bamboo charcoal.

Seiichi Koshimizu, Suntory’s chief blender said: “Hibiki is a niche brand and we understand that not many people can afford to buy such premium whiskies. By adding Hibiki 12 year-old to the range we seek to make  the brand more affordable.”

Bottled at 43% ABV, Hibiki 12 year old will be priced at between £39.99 and £42.99.