Harmony has had an incredible trajectory since its inception. I'm not sure any new whisky brand has grown quick as quickly. While the market driving Japanese whisky growth has been insatiable, it's hard to imagine Harmony being what it is today without the whisky itself tasting wonderful. While the diehard collectors might scoff at the lack of an age statement and instead proudly refer to their hard won trophies of old age stated bottles of Hibiki, the fact is, anyone looking to simply drink and enjoy the prowess of Suntory's distillations and impeccable blending now has the opportunity to do so, at a fair price and without the effort of hunting down delivery trucks. A blend of Yamazaki and Hakushu single malts, and Cheeta's grain distillates, Harmony brings together Beam Suntory's prized distilleries in a seamless package. The flavors are a delight, crisp apple, fresh stone fruits, a touch of piquant pepper and a surprising amounts of vanilla and caramel. The palate has much more weight, presumably from a higher malt content, than I recall in my early tastings when it was first released. It coats the tongue, but is never heavy. The finish is clean and bright and decidedly entices you to have another sip. It's a gorgeous dram and a great sipper or highball maker for Japanese fans and the uninitiated alike.

This whisky contains single malt from both Yamazaki and Hakushu, so there are chops to this blend. Toasted grain, vanilla syrup, new wood, and light tropical fruit notes on the nose with just a touch of spice to keep things playful. The palate has more caramel and honey characteristics balanced by more tingly spice. There's a great salinity here as well with a gentle medicinality and robust malt character.

I was particularly excited to try the 'Hibiki Harmony' since it seems all of the Japanese whisky's are becoming so popular they sell out before most people get a crack at them. There is a definite sherry note present on the nose, and the palate is light, yet rich simultaneously. The Japanese whisky's generally seem to show as more elegant and prettier than those from other countries and this one fits that description perfectly. Though we did receive good stock this time, it won't last with the following the 'Harmony' has. Don't miss this opportunity because it probably won't come again and it's only going to become harder to acquire.