I am new to Japanese whisky but in particular for Hibiki, I like the finishing taste of the oak. Taste very balanced overall.

As far as Japanase whisky goes, this one sets a gold standard. Very smooth on the palate and a nice sweetness. Just easy to drink. I would recommend this as good introduction to Japanese whisky

Light, fruity, smooth, easy going. Lack a stronger and lingering after taste. A good drink and a good representation of Japanese whisky. First bottle to empty in any given occasion.

Very good whisky, complex, reasonably intense, fruity, some plum flavor, sweet, typically "oriental", only faintly smoky, just bit spicy, a bit bitter after taste, overall, great for general enjoyment if one is not after special character.