Art in Wine: Unveiling the Unparalleled Collectible Value and Latest Resale Market of the "Hibiki 17 Year Old" Design Bottle Series (Phoenix, Egret, Musashino Fuji)

Art treasures that have ceased production and are now in their final moments

Whisky understands that Suntory's Hibiki series has always been the king of Japanese blended whiskies, especially the highly regarded vintages, which are sought-after by collectors. Since the Hibiki 17 Year Old was discontinued in 2018 due to insufficient stock of raw materials, its market value has continued to soar, becoming a legend in the whisky investment field. However, among the many versions of Hibiki 17 Year Old, the most artistically valuable and collectible are undoubtedly the series of extremely rare "Designer Bottle" limited editions, which perfectly combine exquisite blending techniques with traditional Japanese aesthetics.

In-depth analysis of the "17 Years of Sound" design bottle series

The special edition bottles of "Hibiki 17 Years" such as Phoenix, Shirasagi, and Mount Fuji were all limited editions launched before the standard version was discontinued. Their rarity and exquisite design have made them fetch high prices on the second-hand market.

1. Phoenix Limited Edition

In Japanese culture, the phoenix symbolizes good fortune and rebirth, and its design exudes nobility. This "Hibiki 2017 Phoenix Limited Edition" is a collector's dream.

• Rarity: Extremely high. Its estimated value at auction has consistently been high. For example, Sotheby's estimated its value at SGD 7,500 to 10,000 (approximately HKD 43,500 to 58,000, based on the exchange rate at the time) in 2024.
• Recycling Market Reference: According to the latest recycling market data, the purchase price of the "Hibiki 2017 Phoenix Limited Edition" in Hong Kong is around HK$80,000 (data source reference). In Taiwan, the purchase price is approximately NT$73,800 to NT$93,800 (approximately HK$17,700 to HK$22,500, calculated based on the exchange rate of the day).

2. Egret White Heron Shirasagi Limited Edition

The "White Heron" bottle is considered by many to be one of the most sought-after and rarest bottles in the "Hibiki 17 Year Old" hand-painted limited edition.

• Rarity and Collectibility: According to industry sources, only about 2,000 bottles of this wine were released, making it extremely rare on the market. Most are likely already held by collectors or investors. Its price in the European market reaches as high as €15,000 (approximately HK$127,500, based on the exchange rate of the day). On Yahoo! Auction Japan, the average transaction price over the past 180 days was approximately ¥284,878 (approximately HK$14,800, based on the exchange rate of the day), while the highest hammer price reached ¥544,498 (approximately HK$28,300, based on the exchange rate of the day), demonstrating its fluctuating value and high demand.
• Recycling Price Reference: The estimated resale price of the "Hibiki 2017 White Heron Limited Edition" in the Hong Kong market is approximately HK$60,000 .

3. Mount Fuji Limited Edition

The Musashino Fuji limited edition bottle design features Mount Fuji as its main element, adorned with patterns of plum blossoms, pine trees, and bamboo, aiming to showcase the beauty of Japanese nature. This specially designed bottle was launched in 2013, offering a light and smooth taste with a mellow finish.

• Rarity and collectability: Due to its unique design, it is also a favorite among collectors. On Yahoo! Japan Auction, its hammer price ranged from approximately 253,000 to 349,798 yen (approximately 13,150 to 18,200 Hong Kong dollars, calculated based on the exchange rate of the day).
• Resale value reference: Although the circulation of Yijiang vases is relatively high, they are still considered high-value collectibles. The estimated purchase price in the Hong Kong market is approximately HK$20,000 .

Market Value and Recycling Trends Analysis

These "17 Years of Sound" designer bottles are worth far more than their standard versions. Several key factors contribute to their price increase:

1. Production halt effect and scarcity of base spirit: Since the discontinuation of "Hibiki 17 Year Old" in 2018, there are fewer and fewer bottles available on the market. The spirit contained in this batch of special edition bottles inherits the rich and complex taste of the traditional "Hibiki 17 Year Old" and may contain more aged base spirit, making the aged spirit even better.
2. The Artistic Premium of Limited-Edition Designs: Designed bottles incorporate traditional Japanese art (such as flowers, birds, wind, and moon) into their packaging, possessing both aesthetic appeal and artistic value, making them an impressive focal point in any wine cabinet. For example, the early "Hibiki 17 Year Old Four Seasons Flowers and Birds Limited Edition" (Shiki Kacho, released in 2010) is hailed as the "unicorn" of the Hibiki series, being extremely rare. Its price in the Singapore market reached SG$18,000 (approximately HK$104,400, calculated at the exchange rate on that day). The estimated acquisition price in the Hong Kong market even reached as high as HK$120,000 .

Whisky reminds you: The integrity of the whisky is crucial to its resale value. The original box (especially the deluxe gift box) and all accompanying instructions or booklets will affect the collectible value of Hibiki whisky.

Vessex's professional services and commitments

We at Vishseer understand the precious value of every bottle of their "Sound 17 Year Old" Masterpiece. Our professional appraisal team possesses extensive industry experience and can accurately authenticate and evaluate your collection. For high-priced wines, due to the prevalence of counterfeits, distinguishing genuine from fake is crucial. We advise collectors to carefully examine the 24 facets of the bottle for precision and clarity, the label printing for legibility, and the seal for integrity. Genuine bottles are meticulously detailed in the cap and label.

We are committed to providing competitive pricing that reflects the highest market standards for your Hibiki whisky. Whether you're looking to sell a rare vintage or a top-tier limited-edition bottle, Whisky is the best partner for realizing the value of your collection.

Contact Wissex today to unlock the highest value of your collection!

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If you own any of the above-mentioned "Hibiki 17 Year Old Design Bottles", or other high-value whiskies, brandies, watches, jewelry, or other collectibles, please contact us immediately for the latest market quotes and free professional appraisals.

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