Suntory Liquors Limited will introduce Suntory HIBIKI Whisky Aged 12 Years in selected European countries in mid-May, before it becomes available elsewhere.

HIBIKI was first sold in 1989 to commemorate Suntory's 90th anniversary. This premium blended whisky may be called the pinnacle of the Suntory portfolio. It is currently available in 30, 21, and 17 year-old classes. Each has won multiple awards at authoritative international spirits competitions in recent years, proving how highly acclaimed they are even on a global scale.

As a fitting way to encourage global brand-building in this, the 20th year since HIBIKI was first released, Suntory is planning special international launches. Recognizing the popularity of the 12-year-old class in the worldwide blended whisky market, Suntory will take this opportunity to develop and introduce HIBIKI of this class across Europe, including in the homeland of sScotch whisky in the UK.
The Japanese launch is scheduled for this autumn.

Introducing HIBIKI 12 Years

Malt whiskies matured 12 years or longer are perfectly matched with mellow grain whiskies of the same age to create this HIBIKI offering. Also included is some whisky from casks formerly used in long-term aging of Japanese plum liqueur, which helps bring out the sweet floral notes on the nose and palate that Suntory whisky is known for. Adding venerable malt aged more than 30 years further brings out the bouquet and adds body to the palate. At a turning point marking the 20th anniversary of HIBIKI, this new offering brings together all of Suntory's whisky making expertise and blending craftsmanship for whisky enthusiasts around the world.

Tasting Notes

Brilliant amber in color. A fruity bouquet, followed by sweet honey and custard cream. On the palate, a soft and mellow sweetness makes this a whisky one can also enjoy straight. A long finish, with subtle tartness and a spicy bouquet.

Packaging Highlights

The exquisite bottle has 24 facets, representing both the hours in a day and the many seasons according to the lunar calendar. A label reflecting international perspectives was developed, with the name centered on traditional Echizen paper as a proud signature of the brand.

International awards won by Suntory HIBIKI whisky in recent years

Year	Competition	Award	Winner
2008	International Spirits Challenge (ISC, UK)	Trophy	HIBIKI 30 Years Old
	World Whisky Awards (WWA, UK)	World's Best Blended Whisky	HIBIKI 30 Years Old
2007	International Spirits Challenge (ISC, UK)	Trophy	HIBIKI 30 Years Old
	World Whisky Awards (WWA, UK)	World's Best Blended Whisky	HIBIKI 30 Years Old
	International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC, UK)	Best in Class	HIBIKI 30 Years Old
			HIBIKI 17 Years Old
2006	International Spirits Challenge (ISC, UK)	Trophy	HIBIKI 30 Years Old
	International Spirits Challenge (ISC, UK)	Gold	HIBIKI 21 Years Old
2005	International Spirits Challenge (ISC, UK)	Gold	HIBIKI 21 Years Old
	San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SWSC, U.S.A.)	Gold	HIBIKI 17 Years Old
2004	International Spirits Challenge (ISC, UK)	Trophy	HIBIKI 30 Years Old
	International Spirits Challenge (ISC, UK)	Gold	HIBIKI 21 Years Old

— Details —

Product Name, Volume, Suggested Retail Price, Alcohol Content, Packaging

Suntory HIBIKI Whisky Aged 12 Years , 700 ml , £35 , 43% , 6 bottles

Date Available

Gradual release starting mid-May 2009

Sales Area

Selected European countries (UK, France, and Sweden)