4 Premium Reserve Japanese Whiskeys to Try if You Love Hibiki 21 Year Old
Hibiki 21 Year Old is a renowned Japanese whiskey known for its exceptional complexity, balance, and depth. If you’re a fan of this exquisite whiskey, you’ll appreciate these four premium alternatives that offer unique flavors and superior quality.
1. Yamazaki 18 Year Old
Yamazaki 18 Year Old is a standout single malt from Japan’s oldest distillery, Suntory’s Yamazaki Distillery. This whiskey is aged in a combination of American, Spanish, and Japanese Mizunara oak casks, giving it a rich and complex flavor profile.
Tasting Notes:
- Aroma: Deep and mature with dried fruit, toffee, and a hint of smoke.
- Palate: Full-bodied with layers of dark chocolate, dried apricots, and cinnamon.
- Finish: Long and elegant with lingering spice and oak.
Rating:
- Overall Rating: 95/100
- Taste: 96/100
- Aroma: 94/100
- Appearance: 95/100
- Value: 92/100
- Packaging: 93/100
2. Nikka Taketsuru 21 Year Old
Nikka Taketsuru 21 Year Old is a tribute to Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Nikka. This blended malt whiskey is crafted from a blend of malts from Nikka’s Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries, offering a harmonious and balanced flavor.
Tasting Notes:
- Aroma: Rich with sherry notes, dark chocolate, and dried fruit.
- Palate: Smooth and complex with flavors of coffee, caramel, and spices.
- Finish: Long, with a pleasant smokiness and sweet oak.
Rating:
- Overall Rating: 94/100
- Taste: 95/100
- Aroma: 93/100
- Appearance: 94/100
- Value: 91/100
- Packaging: 92/100
3. Hakushu 18 Year Old
Hakushu 18 Year Old is a single malt whiskey from Suntory’s Hakushu Distillery, known for its fresh and herbal character. This whiskey is aged in a combination of American oak and sherry casks, resulting in a unique and refreshing flavor profile.
Tasting Notes:
- Aroma: Fresh and fruity with green apple, pear, and mint.
- Palate: Smooth with flavors of honey, dried fruit, and a touch of smoke.
- Finish: Crisp and clean with lingering herbal notes.
Rating:
- Overall Rating: 93/100
- Taste: 94/100
- Aroma: 92/100
- Appearance: 93/100
- Value: 90/100
- Packaging: 91/100
4. Karuizawa 30 Year Old
Karuizawa 30 Year Old is a rare and highly sought-after single malt from the now-closed Karuizawa Distillery. This whiskey is aged in sherry casks, giving it a deep and intense flavor profile.
Tasting Notes:
- Aroma: Rich with dried fruit, leather, and dark chocolate.
- Palate: Full-bodied and complex with flavors of raisins, tobacco, and spices.
- Finish: Long and luxurious with a balance of sweetness and oak.
Rating:
- Overall Rating: 97/100
- Taste: 98/100
- Aroma: 96/100
- Appearance: 97/100
- Value: 95/100
- Packaging: 96/100
Conclusion
These four premium reserve Japanese whiskeys each offer a unique and exceptional tasting experience, making them excellent alternatives to Hibiki 21 Year Old. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or a curious enthusiast, these whiskeys are sure to impress with their depth, complexity, and exquisite flavors.
