Whispers of Time: A Ginza Bartender's Guide to Mitsukoshi's Hibiki 21 Year Old and Hibiki 2022 Tasting Set

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Good evening, my dear patrons. From behind this time-honored counter in Ginza, where countless stories have been shared over the clinking of ice and the amber glow of fine spirits, there’s a particular buzz in the air that I simply must share. It concerns a rare opportunity, one that speaks to the very soul of Japanese ウイスキー (Whisky): a special 飲み比べセット (tasting set) featuring two exceptional expressions of Hibiki, the Hibiki 21 Year Old and the Hibiki 2022, offered through an exclusive 抽選販売 (lottery sale) by none other than 三越 (Mitsukoshi).

To truly appreciate these whiskies, one must understand not just the liquid in the glass, but the history, the philosophy, and the very land from which they emerge. So, let us embark on a brief journey together, before you even raise your glass.

The Harmony of Hibiki: A Philosophy in a Bottle

The name "Hibiki" itself means "resonance" or "harmony" in Japanese, a concept deeply ingrained in its creation. Born from the pioneering spirit of Suntory, a name synonymous with Japanese whisky, Hibiki represents the pinnacle of the blender’s art. It’s a symphony of various malt and grain whiskies, aged in different cask types, meticulously woven together to achieve a profound balance.

Imagine the diverse climates of Japan: the misty valleys surrounding the Yamazaki distillery, where the first Japanese whisky was crafted, and the pristine forests of Hakushu, nestled high in the Southern Japanese Alps. These environments, with their unique water sources and temperature fluctuations, impart distinct characters to the maturing spirits. The philosophy of the craftsmen is one of unwavering dedication, patience, and a deep respect for nature, aiming to capture the essence of Japan's 24 seasons in every drop.

The Venerable Elder: Hibiki 21 Year Old

Let us first turn our attention to the Hibiki 21 Year Old, an expression that has garnered international acclaim and adoration. When it graces your nosing glass, you are greeted by an exquisite tapestry of aromas: notes of cooked fruit, blackberry, ripe banana, and a subtle hint of caramel. It’s a scent that invites contemplation, promising a journey for the palate.

Upon tasting, the complexity unfolds beautifully. You’ll discover a rich, sweet, and velvety texture, with hints of sandalwood and dried fruit, perhaps a touch of honeyed sweetness and a gentle spice. The finish is remarkably long, warm, and lingering, a testament to its extensive maturation. Each sip is a whisper of time itself, a reflection of over two decades spent patiently slumbering in oak casks, absorbing the unique character of its surroundings.

Craftsmanship and Patience

The creation of Hibiki 21 Year Old is an ode to patience. It's a masterful blend of carefully selected whiskies, some matured in rare Mizunara oak casks, known for imparting distinct incense-like notes. The blenders meticulously select and marry these mature spirits, ensuring that the final harmony is achieved with precision and artistry that only decades of experience can bring.

The Contemporary Masterpiece: Hibiki 2022

Now, to contrast, we have the Hibiki 2022. While the 21 Year Old speaks of enduring legacy, the 2022 release offers a glimpse into the ongoing evolution and innovative spirit of Hibiki. Each annual release is an opportunity for the master blenders to showcase a distinct facet of the Hibiki character, often incorporating unique blending techniques or a specific focus on certain casks to create a fresh, yet unmistakably Hibiki, profile.

While I haven't yet had the pleasure of fully exploring this particular vintage in depth, I anticipate a vibrant and intriguing experience. Annual limited editions like the Hibiki 2022 often bring forth a more contemporary expression, perhaps with brighter fruit notes, a different balance of sweetness and spice, or a unique aromatic nuance that sets it apart from its aged brethren. It's a dialogue between tradition and innovation, preserving the core philosophy of harmony while exploring new dimensions of flavor.

A Glimpse into Innovation

The philosophy behind such annual limited releases is to offer enthusiasts a chance to experience the blender's craft in a new light each year. It's a celebration of the present moment in whisky-making, showing how the spirit of Hibiki continues to resonate and adapt, always striving for new heights of perfection while staying true to its roots.

The Art of Comparison: A Rare Opportunity from Mitsukoshi

This is precisely why the 飲み比べセット (tasting set) from 三越 (Mitsukoshi) is such an extraordinary offering. To experience the profound depth of the Hibiki 21 Year Old alongside the distinct character of the Hibiki 2022 is not merely a tasting; it is an education. It allows you to discern the subtle differences that age, cask selection, and blending philosophy impart.

When you participate in the 抽選販売 (lottery sale) for this set, you are not just acquiring bottles; you are gaining access to a masterclass in Japanese whisky. Take your time with each dram. Observe the color, inhale the aromas, let the liquid linger on your palate, and reflect on the journey each whisky has undertaken. It’s an experience that truly deepens your appreciation for the art of whisky making.

Raise Your Glass to Harmony

Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or embarking on your whisky journey, the opportunity to compare these two remarkable expressions of Hibiki is truly special. It is a chance to feel the resonance of time, tradition, and innovation in a single tasting. I encourage you to seek out this unique offering from 三越 and discover the profound harmony that lies within each drop.

May your glass always be filled with discovery, and may the spirit of Hibiki resonate long after the last sip.