YOICHI - 10 years old - 2023 Edition - 45% ABV
Nikka Whisky Distilling Company, a prestigious Japanese whisky house, is located in Japan and was founded by Masataka Taketsuru, a true pioneer recognized as the founding father of Japanese whisky. The son of a sake master brewer, Taketsuru studied chemistry at university before perfecting his craft by working in several renowned Scottish distilleries. In 1920, he returned to Japan accompanied by his Scottish wife, Rita, bringing with him all the expertise to create an exceptional whisky. After an initial experience at the company that later became Suntory (formerly Kotobukiya Limited), where he participated in the production of the very first Japanese whisky, he founded the Yoichi distillery alone and created the parent company Nikka. Today, Nikka is also known for its distilleries specializing in the production of Shochu — a traditional Japanese distilled spirit made from various ingredients such as rice, barley, and sweet potato — as well as for its facilities dedicated to producing cider brandy and apple wine. Since 2001, Nikka has belonged to the Asahi Breweries group, a major player in the beverage sector.
The Yoichi distillery, built in 1934 and operational since 1936, enjoys a privileged location very close to the sea, surrounded by mountains on three sides, its natural environment clearly evoking the famous Scottish Highlands. The harsh climate, combined with an optimal humidity level, pure and fresh air, exceptional soft water, and the immediate proximity of the ocean, give this whisky unique characteristics. The sea breeze naturally infuses the whisky with a slightly salty touch during maturation. Furthermore, the traditional coal-fired distillation, practiced on site, imparts peaty and smoky notes deeply rooted in the authentic character of Yoichi.
Peaty