House of Suntory will release a limited edition bottling of Hibiki Harmony Japanese whisky that was finished in sakura wood casks.
Hibiki Blossom Harmony was designed to celebrate the sakura blossom season in spring in Japan.
Set to launch on 18 October in select markets, Hibiki Blossom Harmony sits at 43% ABV and will retail for RRP £175 (US$196).
It will be available in the following markets: the US, the UK, Australia, Germany, France, Spain, Austria, the United Arab Emirates, the Netherlands, Italy, Turkey, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. Retailers will include Master of Malt, The Whisky Exchange, Amathus, Milroys and Soho Wines.
Shinji Fukuyo, fifth-generation chief blender, said: “I have been mesmerised by the sakura cask for the last five years now due to its symbolism, but also because of its distinctive, subtly floral and spicy aroma and flavour notes.
“There have been many experiments with malt and grain whisky components, and we found that there was a special alchemy between the grain whiskies and the sakura cask. It is this special relationship – harmony – that inspired me to create this blend.”
Tasting notes for Hibiki Blossom Harmony include aromas of floral scents, sakura and olive. The palate is said to be smooth with acacia honey, French pear and ‘sweetness suggestive of sakura mochi’, leading to a long finish.
In August this year, House of Suntory appointed a new UK brand ambassador.