Hibiki 12 Year Old Blended Japanese Whisky — Suntory, 86 Proof
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Regular price $649.95
Regular price Sale price $649.95
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Age: 12 Years | Region: Japan | Proof: 86 Proof
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Hibiki 12 Year Old is a hauntingly beautiful relic of Suntory’s age-stated past. Originally introduced in 2009 to commemorate the House of Suntory's 90th anniversary, this blend was abruptly discontinued in 2015, instantly elevating it to "unicorn" status among Japanese whisky enthusiasts. A masterfully balanced marriage of malts from Yamazaki and Hakushu with grain whisky from Chita, the Hibiki 12 is renowned for its secret ingredient: a distinctive component matured in plum liqueur casks.

The Seasonal Distinction

Presented in the signature 24-faceted decanter—representing the 24 seasons of the traditional Japanese lunar calendar—the 12-year expression offers a textural sweetness that the modern NAS Harmony cannot replicate.

  • Plum Cask Finishing: The inclusion of malt aged in "Umeshu" (plum liqueur) barrels imparts a sophisticated fruit-derived sweetness and floral lift unique to this bottling.
  • Mizunara Depth: Despite its younger age statement, the Yamazaki component brings the characteristic sandalwood and incense notes of rare Japanese oak to the mid-palate.
  • Discontinued Pedigree: As an out-of-production release, this bottling represents a finite era of Suntory’s inventory, making it a foundational asset for vertical Hibiki collectors.
Sensory Profile

Nose: Honey, ripe orchard fruit, and dried apricot. Soft waves of sandalwood, jasmine, and faint plum skin develop alongside baking spice and integrated cereal sweetness.

Palate: Medium-bodied and remarkably refined. Entry notes of honey and pear transition into a mid-palate of Mizunara-derived sandalwood, dried fruit, and a soft, liqueur-like sweetness.

Finish: Medium-long and floral. A signature closing of lingering honey and soft oak spice with a persistent, fruit-and-sandalwood note.

The Suntory Vertical

Within the discontinued age-stated lineup, the 12 Year Old sits as the elegant entry point above the non-age-stated Harmony. It provides a more fruit-forward, approachable profile than the heavily sherried Hibiki 17 or 21.

"A structural masterpiece that defines the 'plum blossom' era of Japanese blending."

Technical Specifications
Producer Suntory (Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita)
Style Blended Japanese Whisky (Discontinued)
Age Statement 12 Years Minimum
Cask Types Plum Liqueur, Mizunara, Bourbon, & Sherry
Proof / ABV 86 Proof / 43% ABV
Bottle Format 24-Faceted Signature Decanter
Production Era 2009 – 2015
Collector Notes

The Hibiki 12 is a high-conviction acquisition for the world's most elite spirit libraries. Having been discontinued for over a decade, pristine examples with intact original packaging are becoming increasingly scarce. Collectors value the 12-year not only for its liquid quality—which many argue surpasses the current NAS offerings—but for its role in the 90th-anniversary history of Suntory. As the secondary market price for the 17 and 21 expressions has moved into the four-figure range, the 12 Year Old remains the most viable age-stated investment for vertical collectors. Every bottle offered here is verified for pristine label and seal integrity with authenticated provenance.

Recommended Serving

To fully isolate the plum liqueur and sandalwood aromatics, enjoy this blend neat in a Glencairn glass at room temperature. However, to experience the spirit as intended in its native Tokyo, it performs exceptionally well in a Premium Highball—served with chilled sparkling water over a hand-carved ice pillar. The fruit complexity also makes it a peerless partner for sushi, light grilled sea bass, or dried apricots.
Shipping information

Adult Signature Required: Federal law requires an adult (21+) with a valid government ID to sign for all deliveries. Carriers cannot leave alcohol unattended.

Processing Time: Most orders process within 1–8 business days. You will receive a tracking number via email as soon as your bottle ships.

Insured Shipping: We strongly recommend electing Shipping Protection at checkout. Midnight Whiskey is not liable for loss or damage once in the carrier's possession unless insurance is purchased.

Restrictions: We ship only within the permitted U.S. states and cannot deliver to P.O. Boxes or U.S. Territories.

All Sales Final: Due to alcohol regulations, we cannot accept returns for change of mind.
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