This unaged version was released in 2016 as a permanent product that truly captures the authentic style of Yoichi malts, when all age indications were removed. A blend of different malt whiskies, this bottling expresses a delicate balance of peaty, smoky and fruity aromas.
Nikka's first distillery built in 1934. Founder Masataka Taketsuru chose the town of Yoichi in Hokkaido because of the environmental conditions similar to those in Scotland, where he learned whisky-making. Yoichi malts are described as bold and powerful, with refined peaty notes and a smoky edge brought by traditional direct charcoal distillation. The sea breeze from Ishikari Bay adds a briny touch to the whisky during maturation.
Nose: Miyagikyo Discovery Aromatic Yeast reveals delicate notes of ripe fruit, vanilla and honey, with a light floral touch. Feel: On the palate, this whisky reveals complex flavors of tropical fruit, toasted oak and caramel, offering a silky, balanced texture. Finish: The finish is long and warm, giving way to lingering notes of dried fruit and subtle spices.
Nose: Fine, balanced. malted barley-like, fruity (green banana, golden apple), acacia honey, exotic (pineapple), spicy (coriander, ginger, black pepper) and herbaceous (chervil, lovage). Then, gradually, medicinal notes (balsam).
Mouth: Lively, taut. Citrus fruits (lemon, grapefruit) provide a dynamic attack. This is followed by a beautiful, almost roasted vanilla sequence (coffee), whose greediness highlights a remarkable sweet/savory balance.
Finish: Long, rich, with aniseed (star anise), vegetal (zucchini flower) and creamy (coconut milk) flavors gradually spreading around the palate.
Mouth: Smooth and creamy with a hint of mint and honey.
Finish: Clean, woody and spicy with subtle bittersweet notes.
This unaged version was released in 2016 as a permanent product that truly captures the authentic style of Yoichi malts, when all age indications were removed. A blend of different malt whiskies, this bottling expresses a delicate balance of peaty, smoky and fruity aromas.