I recently had the opportunity to attend the Hibiki Japanese Harmony Whisky tasting at Miku Restaurant, where Beam Suntory Japanese Whisky Brand Ambassador, Johnnie Mundell offered up some history and tasting notes behind the brand.
Hibiki Japanese Harmony encapsulates the harmony that exists between Japanese nature and its people. Inspired by the riches and subtleties of Japan’s 24 seasons and mastered by Suntory’s Art of Blending, Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a meticulous blend of the finest select whiskies from the House of Suntory. It is a symphony of at least 10 malt and grain whiskies, aged in five different types of casks, from Suntory’s Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries. This delicate blend creates a oneness, unfolding a full orchestra of flavours and aromas.
From the master blenders of the House of Suntory, Hibiki Japanese Harmony was initially developed to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the revered Whisky makers, and is now available in Canada including a few restaurants in Vancouver.
After the formal tasting of the various Whisky’s we were served a plate of bites from the chef at Miku Restaurant.
Miku Restaurant selection
Japanese Wagyu Roll with pan seared Fois-Gras, qurel Onsen egg, ponzu daikon sauce, shiso; Soy braised Abalone with puttanesca sauce, enoki mentai pasta; and Lobster Tartare done as a sous vide lobster, heirloom tomatoes, fennel, iwanori bugette, herb pesto, grainy mustard, Yuzu vinaigrette paired with Hibiki whisky.
Shomyo
We then enjoyed a sweet selection that was paired with a delicious warm cocktail called Shomyo made by bartender Lauren Mote.
Miku Restaurant selection
Hazelnut Praline, Hazelnut Macaron, Milk chocolate truffle, bergamot passion fruit gelee paired with Shomyo warmed Hibiki whiskey cocktail.
A limited 2,000 cases of this coveted whisky has been released in Canada this fall. Hibiki Japanese Harmony is now available through the British Columbia LDB. The retail price for Hibiki Japanese Harmony is approximately $99.95 / 750 mL bottle. You can also find Hibiki at select restaurants around Vancouver including Miku Restaurant and others.
By: Richard Wolak