Nikka Miyagikyo Japanese Single Malt Whisky 750ml
WHY: Often considered the Pepsi of Japanese whisky to Suntory’s Coke, Nikka is Japan’s second largest whisky producer, known for its rich and layered whiskies of finesse. Nikka’s Miyagikyo Single Malt has an elegant fruitiness and a distinctive aroma with a strong Sherry cask influence that would fool even the most diehard Macallan drinker with notes of toffee, fudge, and spice cake.
HOW: Nikka’s two distilleries differ in their styles, with Yoichi producing a coastal style of whisky and Miyagikyo producing a classic Highland style. Using Oloroso Sherry butts, the Miyagikyo whiskies have a richness that melds seamlessly with the delicate pot-distilled spirit.
WHAT: Nikka was founded in 1940 by Masataka Taketsuru, after having overseen construction of Japan’s first whisky distillery: Yamazaki. Taketsuru was sent to Scotland in 1918 to learn about single malt production, and spent his time interning at the Hazelburn Distillery in Campbeltown. After working a ten year contract with Suntory, he left to build the Yoichi Distillery in 1934. Nikka owns and operates two distilleries: Yoichi Distillery on the island of Hokkaido, and the Miyagikyo Distillery in Sendai. In addition to single malt production, the Miyagikyo Distillery has a large Coffey column still used to make grain whisky for blending, as well as gin and vodka.
