Nikka Discovery Series - Yoichi Aromatic Yeast Single Malt Whisky
(Japan) - [WA 91]

About Nikka: 
The founder of Nikka and the father of Japanese whisky, Masataka Taketsuru, received his training in Scotland while under contract for another company. Taketsuru founded Nikka in 1934 with the establishment of the Yoichi Distillery on the island of Hokkaido. Taketsuru's early successes prompted the development of a second distillery in 1969, this time built on the island of Honshu in the foothills of the Miyagi prefecture, two hours north of Tokyo.

About the Whisky:
These rare versions of Yoichi and Miyagikyo Single Malts are released as the second in the 'Nikka Discovery' series -- limited bottlings that offer an inside look at the various experiments made during the whiskey-making process.

The 2022 limited edition bottlings focus on the distinctive aromas generated by yeast selected from Nikka's vast 'culture collection.' This pair of expressions is designed to use rare, experimental batches with unique aromas that originated from yeast.

Single Malt Yoichi Aromatic Yeast is crafted with yeast that yields a unique aroma reminiscent of ginjyo sake, which complements Yoichi's distinctive smokiness generated by coal-fired distillation. Careful blending is practiced, ensuring each expression balances the unique aromas with the authentic style of each distillery.

96 proof

Awards/Reviews:

91 Points - Whisky Advocate

"Candied citrus and dried fruit aromas are anchored by peat smoke and minerality, plus marzipan, vanilla, choux pastry, bubble gum, apple purée, pear, floral notes, and green foliage. The flavors are clean and elegant, with zesty citrus, vanilla, apricot, hard candies, apple juice, and peppery smoke, while a growing creaminess taps into reserves of baked peach and mango. The smoke and tropical fruits continue on the finish."

 Grade: A-

"Classic notes of coal fires and mushroom — and, yes, perhaps just a hint of melon-laced sake character. The lattermost is more pronounced on the palate, where the smoke all but vanishes and sweeter notes of fresh honeydew, banana, and bubblegum dominate. Refreshing and lightly sweet, ester-driven flavors are the target of the game here, and I can comfortably say that Nikka successfully delivered on that goal."

- Drinkhacker