The Whisper of Fortune: Unpacking the 4,980円 Whisky Lottery Featuring Hibiki JH, Yamazaki NV, Hakushu NV, and Taketsuru

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Good evening, my friends. As the gentle clinking of ice against crystal fills this quiet corner of Ginza, a particular buzz has been echoing amongst our patrons lately. It’s not about a new vintage or a rare cask strength release, but rather something quite unique: the phenomenon of the Whisky Lottery, or as it's known here, the ウイスキーくじ.

For a mere 4,980円, enthusiasts are promised an exciting gamble, a chance to receive a coveted bottle of Japanese whisky. The compelling aspect? The organizers boldly state, "何が届いても100％損はしない" – a 100% guaranteed no loss proposition, regardless of the bottle you receive. But what truly captures the imagination are the grand prizes whispered to be within reach: bottles like Hibiki Japanese Harmony (JH), Yamazaki NV, Hakushu NV, and even Taketsuru.

Tonight, let us not merely consider this a game of chance, but an invitation to explore the very soul of these illustrious spirits. Let me share with you the stories behind the labels, so that should fortune smile upon you, each sip will be imbued with deeper meaning.

The Allure of the ウイスキーくじ – A Game of Taste and Trust

The concept of a lottery in the world of fine spirits is not entirely new, but the widespread availability and the promise of guaranteed value at 4,980円 make this particular ウイスキーくじ a fascinating development. It speaks to the passionate demand for Japanese whisky, especially those elusive bottles that often command premium prices or are simply difficult to find. It’s an adventure for the palate, an opportunity to perhaps discover a new favorite or finally lay hands on a bottle one has long admired from afar.

Whispers of the Land: The Whiskies You Might Discover

Imagine, for a moment, the quiet anticipation as you unwrap your prize. What liquid poetry awaits within?

Hibiki Japanese Harmony (響JH)

Ah, Hibiki – the very name means "resonance" or "echo." It is Suntory's ode to Japanese nature and craftsmanship, a masterful blend that embodies the art of balance. Hibiki Japanese Harmony, often simply referred to as Hibiki JH, is a symphony of malt whiskies from the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries, married with grain whisky from the Chita distillery. Each component is carefully selected to represent the 24 seasons of the traditional Japanese calendar.

When you raise a glass of Hibiki JH, you are greeted by an exquisite nose of rose, lychee, and a hint of rosemary, followed by the sweet perfume of mature wood. On the palate, it unfolds with notes of honey, candied orange peel, and a subtle white chocolate creaminess, leading to a long, gentle finish with a whisper of Mizunara oak. It is a whisky designed for contemplation, reflecting the harmony of its diverse elements.

Yamazaki NV (山崎NV)

To speak of Yamazaki is to speak of the very genesis of Japanese whisky. Founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii, it was Japan's first commercial whisky distillery, nestled at the foot of Mount Tennozan on the outskirts of Kyoto. Here, the unique climate—humid and misty, with distinct seasonal changes—and the pure, soft waters of the region provide the perfect conditions for whisky maturation. The Yamazaki NV (No Age Statement) is a celebration of this heritage, showcasing the distillery's diverse cask types and maturation techniques.

The Yamazaki NV often presents itself with a rich, fruity aroma, reminiscent of peach, pineapple, and grapefruit, underpinned by hints of vanilla from American oak and a characteristic spiciness from Mizunara oak. On the tongue, it's smooth and complex, with notes of sweet vanilla, cream, and a gentle woodiness, culminating in a medium-long, slightly spicy finish. It is a true expression of Japanese single malt, deeply rooted in its terroir.

Hakushu NV (白州NV)

From the bustling suburbs of Kyoto, we journey deep into the Southern Japanese Alps to the Hakushu Distillery, Suntory's "forest distillery." At a high altitude amidst pristine forests and fed by the pure waters filtered through granite, Hakushu whisky offers a distinct contrast to Yamazaki. The cool, moist air and the verdant surroundings imbue this single malt with a unique character. The Hakushu NV (No Age Statement) captures this essence of freshness and vibrancy.

Pour a Hakushu NV, and you'll immediately notice its bright, fresh aroma – green apple, crisp pear, and a subtle mintiness, sometimes with a whisper of gentle smoke. The palate is equally invigorating, clean and lively, with citrus notes, a touch of herbs, and a delicate, light peat smoke (though less pronounced in the NV than some other expressions), leading to a refreshing, clean finish. It is a whisky that truly reflects its natural surroundings, a breath of mountain air in a glass.

Taketsuru (竹鶴)

Finally, we turn our attention to Taketsuru, a name that resonates with profound respect in the world of Japanese whisky. It is a tribute to Masataka Taketsuru, the "Father of Japanese Whisky," who dedicated his life to bringing authentic Scotch whisky-making to Japan. Under his vision, Nikka Whisky was established, and the Taketsuru range represents his philosophy of balanced, pure malt whisky, often featuring blends of malts from Nikka's Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries.

While specific expressions vary, a typical Taketsuru Pure Malt often showcases a rich, malty character with notes of dried fruit, chocolate, and a delicate touch of peat smoke that is beautifully integrated. It is known for its smooth texture and a deep, satisfying complexity that speaks to traditional craftsmanship. To sip Taketsuru is to partake in a legacy, an unwavering pursuit of genuine whisky excellence.

A Final Thought from Behind the Bar

The ウイスキーくじ offering these magnificent whiskies for 4,980円 is more than just a lottery; it is an invitation to explore the rich tapestry of Japanese whisky. Whether you receive a bottle of the harmonious Hibiki JH, the foundational Yamazaki NV, the refreshing Hakushu NV, or the historically significant Taketsuru, you are guaranteed a journey of discovery. The promise of "100% no loss" isn't just about monetary value; it's about the guaranteed experience of quality, heritage, and unparalleled craftsmanship.

So, the next time you hear of this exciting lottery, remember the stories I've shared. And perhaps, with a quiet smile, you might just decide to take a chance. For in every bottle, a world of aroma, flavor, and history awaits. Kanpai.