Hibiki 12 years old, a whisky produced by Suntory, was indeed discontinued in 2015. This decision by the distillery has made the expression quite rare and collectible among whisky enthusiasts and collectors. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have encountered various instances where certain products, especially those with a limited production run, have been discontinued, leading to an increase in their desirability and value.
The discontinuation of Hibiki 12 years old can be seen as a strategic move by Suntory. Whisky production involves a meticulous aging process, with each batch requiring years to mature in oak casks. As a result, distilleries must carefully plan their production to ensure a consistent supply of aged whisky. Sometimes, this means discontinuing certain expressions to make room for new releases or to allocate resources to other products.
In the case of Hibiki 12, it was likely a combination of factors that led to its discontinuation. One possible reason could be the increasing demand for Japanese whisky worldwide. In recent years, Japanese whiskies have gained significant recognition and popularity, leading to a surge in demand. This surge may have put pressure on Suntory to reallocate their whisky resources to meet the growing demand for their other expressions.
Additionally, it's important to note that the aging process for whisky can be unpredictable. The quality and flavor profile of a whisky can vary from batch to batch, even within the same expression. This variability is part of what makes whisky so fascinating, but it also presents challenges for distilleries trying to maintain consistency in their products. Discontinuing a specific expression can help ensure that the distillery can focus on maintaining the quality and consistency of their other offerings.
From a collector's perspective, the discontinuation of Hibiki 12 years old has made it a highly sought-after whisky. Whisky enthusiasts often appreciate the rarity and uniqueness of limited edition or discontinued expressions, as they represent a piece of history and craftsmanship. Owning a bottle of Hibiki 12 can be seen as a testament to one's appreciation for Japanese whisky and a desire to experience a product that is no longer readily available.
The Hibiki 12 years old was indeed discontinued by Suntory in 2015, making it a rare and collectible expression. The decision to discontinue a whisky can stem from various factors, including the need to allocate resources to meet demand for other expressions and to maintain consistency in the distillery's offerings. The rarity of Hibiki 12 has made it highly sought-after among whisky collectors, who value its unique flavor profile and limited availability.