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.
Very complex range of flavours, none of which are unpleasant. Reminds me of Californian wines - overstating everything it tries to copy. The funny shape of the bottle makes it hard to control the pouring.
Despite the high percentage it doesn't try and fight you for your front teeth. There is a hint of a bite but it's soft, like a gentle nibble. It's rather smooth and even a little creamy on the palette. Definitely a recommended purchase.
Not much in the way of flavour, it's definitely drinkable but nothing to shout about. Not my taste I'm afraid.
Great whisky. Notes of fruits, spices, and toffee. 51 abv but goes down as it's 40 abv. Stacks up well against Yamazaki, Hibiki, Hakushu, etc at a fraction of the cost. Only available in 2 stores in the US.
Nectar in a glass with a very little highland water it is equal to the very best scotch
