Hibiki 17 Year Old Blended Japanese Whisky 700ml

Hibiki 17 Year Old is one of the most legendary and collectible Japanese whiskies ever produced, a discontinued age stated jewel from The House of Suntory that has achieved near mythical status among whisky enthusiasts. First introduced in 1989 alongside the Hibiki 21 and 17 expressions, it quickly became a global icon, winning Best Japanese Blended Whisky at the World Whiskies Awards multiple times and earning fame far beyond whisky circles, including a memorable role in the film Lost in Translation. Suntory discontinued Hibiki 17 in 2018 as surging global demand outstripped the finite supply of aged stock, instantly transforming it into one of the most sought after collectible Hibiki expressions. The whisky is a harmonious blend of more than 30 carefully selected malt whiskies from the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries and grain whisky from Chita, all aged a minimum of 17 years, with some components uniquely matured in previously used Umeshu (Japanese plum liqueur) casks alongside American oak, sherry, and rare Mizunara oak. Bottled at 43% ABV in the iconic 24 faceted decanter. The result is a beautifully integrated, elegant, and supremely balanced whisky, the very embodiment of Suntory's philosophy of wa (harmony), and a genuine grail bottle for any serious collection.

ABV / Proof

Tasting Notes

Color: Rich amber with a soft golden glow.

Nose: Extremely complex with peaches, melons, apricots, lemon leaves, plum, stewed apple, cream, and orange peel.

Palate: Full of cream, banana, a hint of citrus, and raspberry, with honeyed stone fruit, subtle oak, and a whisper of smoke. Beautifully integrated, elegant, and silky smooth.

Finish: Long, elegant, and clean with lingering fruit and soft oak.

FAQ

Why is Hibiki 17 discontinued? Suntory discontinued Hibiki 17 in 2018 because surging global demand for aged Japanese whisky outstripped the finite supply of 17 year old stock. As a result, it has become one of the most sought after and collectible Hibiki expressions, with prices rising steadily as remaining bottles become scarcer.

What made Hibiki 17 famous? Beyond its multiple World Whiskies Awards wins, Hibiki 17 gained worldwide fame through its appearance in the film Lost in Translation, where the line "For relaxing times, make it Suntory time" became iconic. Combined with its exceptional quality and balance, this cemented its legendary status.

What are Umeshu casks? Some components of Hibiki 17 were matured in previously used Umeshu casks. Umeshu is a traditional Japanese plum liqueur, and these specially coopered casks impart a subtle, unique fruity character that contributes to the whisky's distinctive complexity, alongside the American oak, sherry, and rare Mizunara oak in the blend.

Is this bottle authentic and worth collecting? Hibiki 17 is one of the most counterfeited Japanese whiskies due to its value and discontinued status, so provenance matters. Genuine bottles in the iconic 24 faceted decanter are highly collectible, sought after by drinkers, collectors, and investors alike, and continue to appreciate in value.

How should I drink it? Given its rarity and value, this is a contemplative pour for special occasions. Enjoy neat in a tulip glass to appreciate the layered complexity, or with a few drops of water. Many collectors keep it sealed as an investment piece. If you do open it, it rewards slow, careful sipping.

How does this compare to other Hibiki releases? Hibiki 17 sat in the core age stated tier between the flagship Japanese Harmony and the 21 Year. Since its 2018 discontinuation, it has become arguably the most iconic and collectible of all the age stated Hibiki expressions, prized for both its quality and its scarcity.

Where can I buy Hibiki 17 Year online? Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.