Nikka (Yoichi)
The Father of Japanese Whisky — Bold, Peated, and Uncompromising
Masataka Taketsuru studied organic chemistry at the University of Glasgow and apprenticed at several Scottish distilleries, including Longmorn and Hazelburn. He returned to Japan in 1920 with a Scottish wife (Rita Cowan) and a head full of distilling knowledge.
He initially worked with Shinjiro Torii at Yamazaki, but the two men had different visions. Torii wanted elegance; Taketsuru wanted authenticity. In 1934, Taketsuru struck out on his own, founding Yoichi in Hokkaido — as far from Yamazaki as possible, geographically and philosophically.
The Story
Founded 1934
Nikka's portfolio expanded with the Miyagikyo distillery in 1969, built to produce a lighter, more floral counterpoint to Yoichi's robustness. Today, the interplay between these two distilleries — one bold and peated, the other elegant and fruity — gives Nikka's blenders extraordinary versatility.
The Nikka Style
Nikka's Yoichi distillery uses coal-fired pot stills — the last in Japan to do so — which produce a heavier, more characterful spirit than the steam-heated stills used elsewhere. Combined with peated malt and Hokkaido's cold maritime climate, Yoichi produces whisky reminiscent of Scottish island malts.
Nikka From The Barrel, the brand's most acclaimed expression, showcases the art of blending. Over 100 different malt and grain whiskies from both distilleries are married and then rested in a variety of cask types. Bottled at cask strength (51.4%), it's regularly named one of the world's best blended whiskies.
Signature Notes
Nikka From The Barrel
Bottled at 51.4% ABV in an iconic square bottle, NFTB is a masterclass in blending. Rich toffee, dark fruit, citrus, and spice with remarkable depth. Winner of multiple World Whisky Awards and one of the best-value whiskies on the planet.
Whiskies from Nikka (Yoichi)
8 expressions in our collection · Average rating: 4.4
Visiting Nikka (Yoichi)
Yoichi distillery offers one of Japan's best whisky experiences — beautiful grounds, excellent museum, and free tastings. The train ride from Sapporo is scenic.
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