Hibiki Japanese Harmony Ryusui Hyakka Limited Edition 2021 (Suntory Whisky)

Hibiki Japanese Harmony Ryusui Hyakka Limited Edition 2021 is a globally released annual limited bottling from Suntory, drawing on malt from the Yamazaki distillery in Osaka Prefecture and the Hakushu distillery in Yamanashi Prefecture alongside Chita grain from Aichi Prefecture. The Ryusui Hyakka name, meaning flowing water and a hundred flowers, refers to the seasonal decorative artwork on the bottle, a feature of Hibiki's annual Japanese design limited editions.

Matured in Ex-Bourbon casks, the blend shares the Harmony liquid base while presenting it in a collectors-oriented release. The flavour profile shows cooked dark fruit, chocolate and a coal-gas smokiness alongside citrus and cooked grain notes, giving it a somewhat roasted and earthy depth compared to the lighter Harmony editions. At 43%, it is smooth and balanced, the annual limited edition positioning making it appealing as much for the vessel as the spirit.