Beam Suntory has released Hibiki Japanese Harmony in Australia this week – a modern recreation of one of the House’s original blends.

First distilled in 1989 to commemorate House of Suntory’s 90 year anniversary, Hibiki epitomises Suntory founder, Shinjiro Torii’s vision of creating a truly Japanese whisky – subtle, refined, yet complex – a whisky that would suit the delicate Japanese palate and enhance their dining experience.

Hibiki Japanese Harmony (Hibiki also meaning “harmony” in Japanese) is a blend of the exact malt and grain whiskies that first went into the Hibiki expression. In total, the whisky features over 12 malt and grain whiskies from Suntory’s distilleries – Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita; Master Blender Shingo Torii and fourth generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo believing the best expression comes from a blend of whiskies from across the country.

The result is an incredibly smooth and light, all the while complex whisky. Notes of rose, lychee, honeylike sweetness, candied orange peel, white chocolate and Mizunara (Japanese oak). This is Japan’s most highly awarded whisky.

Hibiki Japanese Harmony retails for AU$95 and is available through Beam Suntory. The expression is recommended to be enjoyed neat, blended with water, mixed as a cocktail, or served with a hand-carved ice ball for the ultimate Japanese whisky experience.