Yoichi, the jewel of Nikka’s crown, is the company’s first distillery established in 1934 to produce a range of single malt expressions. Founder Masataka Taketsuru chose Yoichi in Hokkaido for its climate, similar to Scotland’s, where he mastered the art of whisky-making. Carefully selected from malts distilled and matured at the Yoichi distillery, this single malt showcases a bold yet refined peatiness, with a subtle maritime influence.
Part of the Yoichi core range, the 20-year-old was retired along with all other age-statement releases due to stock shortages. In a 2003 blind tasting, it outshone several renowned Scottish malts and earned 95 points in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible.
NOSE
Rich and savory, featuring notes of licorice, old nutty sherry, vanilla cream, and a hint of enticing peat.
PALATE
Bigger and fruitier than the nose implies, with aromatic spices and peat blending with rich dark chocolate.
FINISH
Complex and delicately sherried, with peat providing a balanced contrast to the richness.
