Making it to 90 years is a feat — whether or not particular person or model. Nikka Whisky simply turned 90, and to have fun, the Japanese whisky maker has launched The Nikka 9 A long time. This limited-edition mix options whiskies from every decade between the Forties and the 2020s, sourced from all six of Nikka’s distilleries, together with the famend Ben Nevis Distillery in Scotland.
This mix serves as a tribute to Nikka’s legacy and heritage. It contains greater than 150 meticulously chosen whisky batches, from the oldest malts on the Yoichi and Miyagikyo Distilleries to newer grain whiskies from Moji and Satsumatsukasa, and well-aged grains from Nishinomiya, all expertly woven collectively.
“The variety of whiskies gathered for the reason that institution of the corporate is large, with an age hole of practically 90 years,” mentioned Nikka’s Chief Blender, Hiromi Ozaki. “I chosen whiskies with excellent traits amongst our reserves for this mix, pursing the optimum steadiness from a broader view, to realize an general concord with a wealthy sense of breadth and depth.”
The bottle itself can be a murals, crafted utilizing the normal Japanese “Edo-bori” glass carving method. The distinctive design was initially launched with The Nikka 40 Yr in 2014 to commemorate the model’s eightieth anniversary.
The Nikka 9 A long time is bottled at 96 proof (48% ABV) and is non-chill filtered to maximise its flavors and texture. It’s not low cost, as ought to be anticipated. It retails for $3,000, and solely 4,000 bottles can be found worldwide. In case you’re out there for a bottle, these tasting notes gives you a have a look at what to anticipate.
The Nikka 9 A long time Tasting Notes
Nostril: A wealthy apple pie and raisin sweetness with toasty barrel-ageing notes lead into a mild smokiness and the nostalgic scent of vintage furnishings. Advanced and layered aromas give the impression of standing within the warehouse the place the whisky has peacefully slumbered.
Style: Mellow oak with profound depth types a base, structuring the spicy cinnamon, roasted nuts and wealthy darkish chocolate aromas. A delicate bitterness from the peat is balanced by candy apricot jam and maple syrup.
End: Light peat is enveloped by the complete physique, with candy and bitter notes introducing a nice bitterness on a really lengthy end.
