Hibiki 12 Year Old Travel Exclusive

Hibiki 12 Year Old Travel Exclusive Bottling Note

The Hibiki 12 Year Old Travel Exclusive is a blended whisky released in 2026 from Suntory, the producer of the prestigious Japanese whisky brand Hibiki, and made available exclusively through airport duty‑free shops worldwide. It is crafted from malt whiskies distilled at the Yamazaki Distillery and Hakushu Distillery, combined with grain whisky from the Chita Distillery.

This release marks the return of the “Hibiki 12 Year Old,” which had been discontinued in 2015 due to shortages of mature stock. After an eleven‑year absence, it has been revived specifically for the travel retail market. The blend is said to have been re‑imagined by Shinji Fukuyo, the fifth Chief Blender, who built upon the original concept of Hibiki to create a renewed expression.

It carries a 12‑year age statement, guaranteeing a minimum maturation period, and is characterised by a combination of whiskies matured in American oak, Spanish oak and Mizunara oak casks. The bottling strength is 43%.

Sales began in May 2026 with an initial launch at Dubai Duty Free in Dubai International Airport. From 1 June of the same year, distribution expanded to a wide range of major international airports across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas and Oceania, including Singapore Changi Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, and London, Hong Kong, Paris, Frankfurt and Sydney, among others.

While the brand’s NAS expression, “Hibiki Japanese Harmony,” is available through regular retail channels, this bottling occupies a distinct position as an age‑statement Hibiki sold exclusively through duty‑free outlets in major international airports.

The bottle design has also been refreshed, adopting a motif inspired by “Kachō‑fūgetsu,” a traditional Japanese aesthetic celebrating the beauty of nature. The packaging builds upon the iconic 24‑faceted bottle, representing Japan’s twenty‑four seasonal divisions, and incorporates design elements inspired by the circular windows found in traditional Japanese architecture.

In terms of its overall profile, it is described as a harmonious balance of fruit, elegance and oak weight—an expression that reflects the quintessential character of Hibiki.

Note: Specific airport/duty-free location of origin is not selectable.

Hibiki 12 Year Old Travel Exclusive Tasting Note

Nose: Notes reminiscent of sandalwood from Mizunara oak intertwine with aromas of pear and apple. Gentle sweetness from honey and orange peel emerges, with vanilla and light oak lingering in the background. As it opens, subtle floral nuances appear.

Palate: A soft sweetness spreads across the palate, accompanied by textures suggestive of dried fruits and honey. Warm spice and the depth of oak develop towards the mid‑palate, adding dimension. The mouthfeel is notably smooth, with the impression of multiple well‑integrated component whiskies.

Finish: Neither overly long nor short, the finish carries quiet wood tones characteristic of Mizunara oak, along with a faint sweetness. It fades gently, with little sharpness.

Overall: A balanced expression that prioritises harmony over showiness. The individuality of each component whisky is present yet never overpowering, resulting in a cohesive and refined drinking experience.