Wine Enthusiast 91 points - The newest blended whisky offering from Hibiki is burnished gold in the glass and has a bold aroma that mixes vanilla, fresh pear and a hint of smoke. The smokiness comes forward at the first sip, wrapping around a core of oak and vanilla custard and finishing long, with a mouthwatering bitter chocolate note. Top 100 Spirits 2016.Kara Newman, March/2016

Ultimate Beverage Challenge 95 points - Utterly ambrosial, this Japanese whisky boasts resplendent ripe grain from nose to finish with honeyed summer melon and hazelnut custard points of interest along the way. Soft with its clean straw and bold butter mouth feel, the dimensions of the whisky manage to explore complexity with straightforward consistency. - 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge (Extraordinary, Ultimate Recommendation). April/2019

Whisky Advocate 90 points - Poised and complex, yet delicate, with bright fruit and a touch of smoke. June/2018