Hibiki 21 Year Old in a 600mL Kutani porcelain bottle, painted in overglaze colours with peonies and a peacock. It comes from Suntory's series of ceramic whisky bottles made with Japan's historic porcelain regions.
About This Whisky
The Japanese title describes the design. Kaō, the king of flowers, is the peony, and zuichō means an auspicious bird, shown here as a peacock. Both are traditional emblems of prosperity. Behind the enamels sits 600mL of Hibiki 21 Year Old.
Tasting Profile
- Nose: Blackberry, poached pear and toffee, with a hint of cedar.
- Palate: Full and silky, with dried fig, honey, sandalwood and a light peppery spice.
- Finish: Lengthy and gently drying, with incense and orange peel.
Serving & Food
Keep it simple: a small tulip glass, whisky at room temperature, and a pause before tasting. Water is optional. Serve alongside char siu, a mild blue cheese, or a plate of dried persimmons.
How to Enjoy
Collectors drawn to Kutani colour work, or a gift for a milestone that deserves a bottle kept on show.
Product Details
Producer: House of Suntory
Expression: Hibiki 21 Year Ceramic Decanter
Style: Japanese blended whisky
Age: 21 years old
ABV: 43% ABV
Volume: 600mL ceramic decanter
Country: Japan
Presentation: Kutani porcelain bottle with overglaze peony and peacock design
Origin: Japan
About the Distillery
Kutani ware is defined by its overglaze painting. Once the white body has been glazed and fired at high temperature, painters apply the design in enamel colours and fire it again at around 800°C, which fuses the colours onto the glaze.
The classic palette is the Kutani five colours: red, yellow, green, purple and deep navy. Outlines are often drawn first in dark pigment, a step called kotsugaki. Much of the stone still comes from Hanasaka in Komatsu, and its faintly bluish tone after firing makes the enamels look brighter.