Whisky Debates: Which Japanese blends are the best – Suntory’s Hibiki or Nikka’s Taketsuru?
Suntory and Nikka produce whiskies that range in expression and age, but which is smoother and more balanced, and which just tastes better?
Japanese whisky has soared in popularity in the past decade and part of the category’s fame comes from Japan’s amazing understanding of blending whisky and creating immensely balanced expressions. Japanese distilleries have brought new depth to the blended whisky category, an amazing achievement and one primarily led by two premium ranges: Suntory’s Hibiki expressions and Nikka’s Taketsuru range.
Which one, however, comes in at first place?
Suntory Hibiki
Suntory is one of the oldest and, by far, the most famous whisky company in Japan. The company is behind iconic brands like the Yamazaki, Hakushu, and of course, Hibiki whisky. Hibiki is a blended whisky but, unlike some of the cheaper blends from Scotland, the Hibiki expressions are imbued with luxury, balance and elegance.
The blends consist of whisky from Suntory’s Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries. The aged expressions, the Hibiki 30 Year Old, 21 Year Old and 17 Year Old have been winning awards at global spirits competitions for years.
The Hibiki 21 Year Old, in particular, was named the world’s best blended whisky at competitions for five years in row, making it the most award-winning blend out there. The bottle’s 24 facets speak of the 24 hours in a day, the 24 seasons of the traditional Japanese calendar, and the balance and steps of making the liquid. The Hibiki range is whisky, but it’s also art.