Hibiki 40 Years Old: The Art of Blending by The House of Suntory
A homage—or rather, an ode—to generations of master artisans who have made The House of Suntory a true legend in Japanese whisky. The tribute in question is the Hibiki 40 Year Old, an extraordinary blend of premium Japanese whiskies sourced from Suntory’s distilleries: Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita. Each has matured for over 40 years, resulting in a symphony of flavours and aromas inspired by Japan’s 24 seasons.
This opulent whisky, the oldest blend in the brand’s history, was unveiled the other evening in the Sala Mengoni at Ristorante Cracco, located on Corso Vittorio Emanuele II in the heart of Milan. Hibiki, meaning “Resonance” in Japanese, was celebrated with a plated dinner attended by around thirty carefully selected guests, including Maurizio Cattelan, Malika Ayane, Walter Fantini, Beatrice Valli, Paolo Kessisoglu, Valerio Berruti, and Tommaso Sacchi.
Guests were captivated by the refined creation of Suntory’s chief blender, Shinji Fukuyo, who has crafted a harmonious composition. On the nose, it reveals aromas of loquat, dried lemon peel, and cloves, while on the palate, it unveils flavors of acacia honey and dried fig.
Everything about the Hibiki 40 Year Old (limited to just 400 bottles) reflects an Eastern worldview rooted in the acceptance of the impermanence of all things. Even the label, handcrafted by Eriko Horiki, a renowned artist specializing in washi—traditional paper made from mulberry, rice, or hemp fibers—is a tribute to transience.
Photos: Ludovica Arcero
Text: Germano D’Acquisto
