Nikka – From The Barrel Japanese Whisky (50cl, 51.4%)

Nikka From The Barrel is a Japanese blended whisky, bottled at 51.4% ABV in a 50cl bottle. It combines several malt and grain whiskies from Nikka's reserves. At this strength the components need time to settle, so the blend is left to marry in used casks for three to six months. The short, square bottle is meant to suggest a small lump of whisky. The nose offers bourbon vanilla bean and corn with a hint of chamomile. On the palate come sweet melon, grapefruit and maple syrup, balanced by crunchy biscuit and fresh vanilla. The finish is sweet, vibrant and long.