Nikka Whisky From The Barrel was first launched in 1985 and has been stealing hearts ever since. Built from a marriage of malt and grain whiskies, largely drawn from Nikka’s Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries, it is bottled at a forthright 51.4% ABV because anything less would miss the point. The compact, rectangular bottle reflects its concept, "a small block of whisky", but this rich, oily expression has always punched above its size.
This product does not meet all the criteria of "Japanese whisky" defined by the Japan Spirits & Liqueur Makers Association. You can read more on our blog.
Medium-body with good balance. There are notes of cut flowers and fresh fruits, spice, and a little oak.
Full-bodied and punchy. There is plenty of winter spice and toffee, a little caramel and vanilla, and a good mouthful of fruit.
Long, warming and fruity with a little oaken spice.
I have no doubt that in a blind taste test with much pricier, prestigious Whiskies, this unassuming little bottle would more than hold it's own. This would surly get a few discerning nods on the nose alone. Aroma science could be learnt from this dram alone it's that complex, but pleasurable too. Once you sip this stuff you can you can expect rapture. If you hadn't already guessed this would definitely be my Whisky of choice. It somehow manages to combine all the best attributes of Bourbon and Scotch. There's not much smoke going on here but everything else is covered, and done with sublime execution. All the things I look for in a good whisky are here. Vanilla first, followed by rich marmalade and dried fruit, followed by the best spice that doesn't have any peppery burn just luscious fruitcake spices. The finish Remains fruity but now it is rich caramelised Orange and chocolate for good measure. This is a true gourmand whisky. I'm not sure where Nikka are sourcing their barrels from but they are possibly the best barrels around. The Japanese sure know how to make whisky. If you like whisky, get this glorious liquid perfection.
By far the most memorable Japanese whisky I've tried. If you're a bourbon fan like me, you'll love it. Rich, flavoursome, delicious and unbelievably good value.
Is the first thing I discern from my bottle I bought some years ago on Edinburgh's Royal Mile. The alcohol burn slowly creeps up on you but never gets particularly harsh. A definite grassy aftertaste, with something milder than peat (muddy puddle?) around the edges.
Well this whisky knows how to make an impact. Just a quick sniff will tell you this is a whisky which will pack a punch. Notes of oak and spice and a little smoke come through. At first sip you'll notice the impact of the 51% abv without it being too overwhelming which is impressive. A big taste of oak and even a little malt come through with some warming pepper which continues onto the finish with a little smokey hints. It's yet another example of why Japanese whiskies should be tried and taken seriously as a quality drink.
Sometimes whiskies just come and slap you in the face and tell you that all of your previous beliefs about things. This is a big hit of ripe rich fruitcake and toasted almonds. Cinnamon and nutmeg notes add to the complexity. It's huge on flavour and that body and intensity along with the quality of spirit hide that 51% alcohol which seems to be smooth and soft in texture. It's Japanese, and it's a blend and it's totally awesome!
