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The Art of Hibiki Harmony Whiskey: Delicate Japanese Blending – Whiskey Review

Rating: 5/10 – Rating System

Introduction
Hibiki Harmony Whiskey emerges as a testament to the meticulous artistry of Japanese whiskey-making. Born from the revered Suntory distillery, this blend is not just a drink but a representation of a cultural philosophy. Crafted with the utmost precision and dedication, it embodies the essence of “wa,” the Japanese concept of harmony, resonating through its seamless integration of diverse flavors and textures. Harmony stands as a beacon of balance in a world where the subtlety of craftsmanship speaks volumes.

Eye
The appearance of Hibiki Harmony is a soft amber, alluring in the glass, hinting at its complexity. Its color is captivating, showcasing a harmony of rich hues that beckon the drinker to explore further.

Nose
Upon nosing, Hibiki Harmony presents a bouquet of floral and fruity notes, with hints of orange peel, apricot, and a touch of honey. There’s a subtle waft of oak and a gentle smokiness lingering in the background, contributing to its depth.

Palate
On the palate, this whiskey continues the symphony of flavors, offering a smooth and velvety texture. Delicate flavors of vanilla, toffee, and cinnamon dance on the tongue, accompanied by a slight spiciness that adds dimension. While the blend is well-crafted, it might lack the boldness some whiskey enthusiasts seek.

Finish
The finish of Hibiki Harmony is medium in length, leaving behind a sweet and slightly spicy aftertaste. It’s pleasant, yet the experience feels somewhat fleeting, not lingering long enough to leave a profound impression.

Conclusion
Hibiki Harmony is undoubtedly an elegant blend, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship characteristic of Japanese whiskey-making. However, its subtlety might not resonate with those seeking bolder and more assertive flavors. While it boasts a refined balance and a graceful palate, it falls short in leaving a lasting impact.

Summary
Category: Blended Whiskey
ABV: Varies (typically around 43%)
Eye: Soft amber
Nose: Floral, fruity, hints of oak and smoke
Taste: Vanilla, toffee, cinnamon, subtle spice
Finish: Medium, sweet, slight spice

History and Fun Facts
The Hibiki series was introduced by Suntory in 1989 to commemorate the company’s 90th anniversary. Inspired by the traditional Japanese twelve-fold calendar (known as “tsuki-ami”), Hibiki Harmony incorporates a symphony of malt and grain whiskies, each aged in various casks, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors. The number 24 on the label symbolizes the twenty-four seasons of the Japanese lunar calendar, emphasizing the whiskey’s alignment with nature.

Suntory, founded in 1899 by Shinjiro Torii, stands as one of Japan’s pioneering whiskey producers. Torii’s vision was to create a whiskey that would reflect the delicate balance between nature and craftsmanship, a vision impeccably captured in the Hibiki Harmony expression. Over the years, Suntory has garnered global acclaim for its commitment to excellence and innovation in the realm of whiskey-making, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.

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Breaking the Mold: Crown Royal Black’s Bold Whisky Revolution – Whiskey Review

Rating 5/10 (Rating System)

Introduction: Crown Royal Black embodies a departure from the traditional Crown Royal style, showcasing a more assertive and robust character. This expression, introduced in 2010, sought to cater to whisky enthusiasts desiring a bolder experience within the Crown Royal family. Crafted by master blenders, it’s a blend of select Canadian whiskies, aged in charred oak barrels, resulting in a deeper complexity and intensified flavor profile. The whiskey’s name, “Black,” aptly signifies its darker, richer nature compared to the flagship Crown Royal, appealing to those seeking a more pronounced whisky experience without compromising the brand’s renowned smoothness.

Eye: Deep amber with glints of copper.

Nose: Aromas of toasted oak, vanilla, and caramelized sugar dominate, accompanied by hints of dried fruit and a subtle whiff of spice.

Palate: The palate unfolds with a robust blend of oak and vanilla, merging seamlessly with notes of dark fruit, toffee, and a touch of baking spices. It’s a well-balanced combination that leans toward a richer, heavier profile.

Finish: The finish lingers with warmth and a lingering sweetness, leaving behind echoes of oak and caramel.

Conclusion: Crown Royal Black stands out for its boldness and deeper flavor profile. It’s a whiskey that caters to those seeking a more intense experience within the Crown Royal range.

Summary

Category: Canadian Whisky
ABV: 45%
Eye: Deep amber with copper hues.
Nose: Toasted oak, vanilla, caramelized sugar, hints of dried fruit, and subtle spice.
Taste: Robust oak, vanilla, dark fruit, toffee, and baking spices.
Finish: Lingering warmth, sweetness, with echoes of oak and caramel.

History and Fun Facts: The creation of Crown Royal Black was a strategic move by the brand to expand its portfolio and capture a segment of the market that craved a more robust Canadian whisky. This extension marked a departure from the traditional Crown Royal recipe, emphasizing deeper flavors and a higher proof. It capitalized on the success of the original Crown Royal, leveraging its reputation while offering a distinct, fuller-bodied alternative. The whiskey has since carved a niche for itself among aficionados who appreciate its intensified oak, vanilla, and fruit-forward profile, elevating the expectations of what a Crown Royal expression could offer.

Interestingly, the packaging of Crown Royal Black mirrors its boldness. The bottle’s design, with its sleek black label and rich golden accents, exudes a sense of sophistication and strength. Its introduction was met with enthusiasm among whisky enthusiasts, positioning it as a go-to choice for those seeking a more robust yet familiar Canadian whisky experience. Over the years, Crown Royal Black has maintained its place as a staple in the brand’s lineup, continuing to attract consumers drawn to its amplified flavor profile and the enduring legacy of the Crown Royal name.

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Regal Reverie: Unveiling the Majesty of Royal Salute 21 Years – The Signature Blend – Whiskey Review

Rating 6/10 (Rating System)

Introduction:
Royal Salute 21 years, The Signature Blend, stands as a testament to the artistry of time-honored whiskey craftsmanship. This distinguished expression, conceived to commemorate the auspicious coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, embodies the essence of regality and refinement. Its creation is a meticulous blend of heritage, expertise, and a commitment to excellence, resulting in a whiskey that embodies the grace and sophistication expected from a tribute to royalty. Aged for a minimum of 21 years, it unveils a story steeped in tradition, luxury, and a legacy that resonates across generations of whiskey aficionados and admirers of royal splendor alike.

Eye:
Rich amber with golden hues, gleaming and inviting.

Nose:
The aroma opens with a bouquet of dried fruits – apricots, figs, and hints of ripe plum. Intricately woven into this are nuances of oak, honey, and a faint waft of delicate spices, offering a sense of depth and complexity.

Palate:
Upon the palate, this whiskey presents a symphony of flavors. Creamy caramel intertwines with notes of dried fruits, followed by a gentle flourish of almonds and a subtle touch of cinnamon. The oakiness remains pronounced, complementing the sweetness with a refined elegance.

Finish:
The finish is long and luxurious, leaving a warm and lingering sensation. Oak and vanilla dance gracefully alongside remnants of dried fruits, bidding a farewell that is both memorable and satisfying.

Conclusion:
Royal Salute 21 years, The Signature Blend, is an exemplary whiskey that lives up to its prestigious reputation. Its harmonious blend of flavors, from the initial nose to the enduring finish, embodies sophistication and finesse.

Summary
Category: Blended Scotch Whiskey
ABV: 40%
Eye: Rich amber with golden hues
Nose: Dried fruits, oak, honey, delicate spices
Taste: Caramel, dried fruits, almonds, cinnamon, oak
Finish: Long, warm, oak, vanilla, dried fruits

History and Fun Facts:
The Royal Salute brand was first introduced by Chivas Brothers in 1953, paying homage to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. Its name is derived from the 21-gun salute, a traditional military honor used to mark the most prestigious royal occasions in the United Kingdom.

Crafted by the master blender, Royal Salute’s Signature Blend signifies not just age, but also a meticulous selection of exceptional malt and grain whiskies aged for a minimum of 21 years. Each variant within the Royal Salute range carries its unique significance, often linked to historical events or milestones in the monarchy’s history.

The packaging itself exudes opulence, with handcrafted porcelain flagons adorned with a rich color scheme representing the jewels in the Imperial State Crown. These flagons are meticulously crafted and elegantly presented in velvet-lined boxes, reminiscent of the grandeur and sophistication befitting royalty.

Beyond its symbolic ties to the monarchy, Royal Salute has become synonymous with luxury and excellence in the world of whiskey connoisseurs. Its legacy continues to thrive, captivating enthusiasts with its refined taste and commitment to the highest standards of craftsmanship.

Interestingly, Royal Salute has been celebrated globally, gracing esteemed events and commemorations worldwide, reaffirming its status as a whiskey fit for royal toasts and special occasions.

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Unveiling Little Book Chapter 6 “To the Finish”: A BBQ-Infused Whiskey Journey – Whiskey Review

Rating 7/10 (Rating System)

Nose:

Little Book Chapter 6 “To the Finish” presents itself with a delicate yet captivating nose. The first impression offers a subtle waft of light cinnamon that intertwines harmoniously with the comforting aroma of toasted almonds. The nose carries a medium to high intensity, inviting you to explore further. Just beneath the surface, there’s a hint of BBQ smoke, adding an unexpected and intriguing layer to the olfactory experience. This initial scent promises a unique and complex journey ahead.

Taste:

Upon the first sip, the whiskey’s profile unfolds with a captivating blend of sweet and savory spices that dance on the palate. The flavors, dominated by a distinct BBQ essence, hold their ground and develop over the tasting. This savory quality creates a delightful contrast with the underlying sweetness, keeping your taste buds engaged and intrigued. Amidst the symphony of flavors, a subtle hint of oak emerges, offering a foundation that enhances the overall complexity.

Finish:

The finish of Little Book Chapter 6 “To the Finish” is a testament to its name. It lingers gracefully, carrying a long-lasting warmth that envelopes the senses. The BBQ flavors that were prominent on the palate continue to evolve during the finish, creating a memorable and evolving farewell. This extended finale provides ample opportunity to savor each nuance and allows the whiskey’s character to linger in a satisfying manner.

Overall, Little Book Chapter 6 “To the Finish” offers a distinctive tasting experience with its balanced interplay of spices, BBQ notes, and subtle oak. The nose presents an intriguing invitation, while the palate maintains interest with its sweet and savory complexity. The finish, undoubtedly the highlight, leaves a lasting impression with its prolonged warmth and evolving flavors. While not without its complexities, some drinkers might find the BBQ notes a bit dominant. However, for those seeking a whiskey that pushes the boundaries and offers a unique adventure, Little Book Chapter 6 “To the Finish” certainly delivers. With its intriguing mix of flavors and a captivating finish, it earns a solid rating of 7/10.

Category: American Whiskey
ABV: 58.7% Vol
Nose: Light cinnamon, Toasted almonds, Medium to high intensity, Hint of BBQ
Taste: Sweet & Savory spices, Flavors (mostly BBQ) last, Hint of Oak
Finish: Long finish (with warmth)

LCBO
This one-of-a-kind series features unique cask-strength whiskies that are masterfully blended resulting in Chapter 6 ‘To The Finish’. Complex aromas of savoury and sweet mingle expertly among the notes of charred oak. Rich toasted grain with sweet wood smoke on the palate, finishing with a robust and balanced sweetness.

BC Liquor Store
Full bodied, caramelized oak with hints of sweet baking spices.