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 tend to add a drop of water to my whisky and at over 50%, add a drop more to this. Its smooth, warming with a slight oiliness in the mouth. To me, there are not layers of flavour, but a lovely dark fruits/sherry taste, with Christmas vibes. Maybe a hint of vanilla and toffee. This taste just lingers on and develops to be a bit sharper and the spice comes in. A very nice drink indeed. Reminds me of Penderyn madeira finish, but a bit more rounded (better). Would definitely buy again.
I admit. I bought into the hype. As with a few prior posters, my bottle was pure ethanol overpowering EVERYTHING. The flavors that did come through were smoke, peat, and scotch oakiness. I love bourbon and hate scotch, tho I’m sure my bottle works for some. I relinquished the second bottle.
Did not expect it to be as smooth and full of depth with it being over 50% - quickly becoming my favourite over the lowland distilleries. The only criticism I have is the bottle, it may seem pedantic but its notoriously difficult to pour from, a simple elongation of the neck and you wouldn't have any of this nectar dribble down the side.
The only thing wrong with this Nikka offering is that it only comes in a 50 cl bottle! I am a massive fan of whisky and love to try new things but this is one of the few that I buy multiple times. A joy on your own or in company
Sublime, so much depth and flavour.
