Nikka from the Barrel (50cl, 51.4%)

This is Nikka from the Barrel, a Japanese blended whisky in a 50cl bottle at 51.4% ABV. It is aged in bourbon barrels and brings together two Nikka single malts, Miyagikyo and Yoichi, with a single grain whisky. It was named best Japanese blended whisky under 12 years old at the World Whiskies Awards 2007. The nose is refined and complex, floral and fruity, with spicy and leathery notes. The palate is powerful and firm, spicy and oaky, opening into ripe fruit, caramelised apple and flower. The finish is long, with marine notes and ripe fruit over a base of wood and vanilla.