From Hokkaido, a distillery on an island to the north of the Japanese mainland. This is a somewhat more heavily peated whisky, its smoky character noticeable from start to finish. Wood smoke on the nose, with black pepper, moss, cedar, barley, chocolate, and candied oranges layered in as well. More earthy smoke on the palate, along with a light sweetness, hints of citrus, green apple, almonds, vanilla, light salt, and mild granary notes. The finish is long, smooth, and herbal, with a hint of Madeira.
Nikka was founded by Masataka Taketsuru, opening their first distillery in Yoichi in 1934. Encapsulated by mountains (to the east, south and west) and by the Sea of Japan (to the north), its unique and isolated environment is ideal for whisky-production. The clean air, humidity, and access to underground water filtered through a layer of peat results in a rich and crisp malt.
