Nikka – From the Barrel (51.4%)

Nikka From the Barrel is a Japanese blended whisky first released in 1985, in a square bottle meant to suggest a small block of whisky. It is made by blending more than 100 batches of malt and grain whisky, which then go into used casks for a few more months to marry. It is bottled at 51.4%, close to 90 British proof. Lilac, apricot, clove and leather come through on the nose. The palate is firm and peppery with oak, then ripe peach, caramelised apple and honeysuckle. The finish is long and coastal, with plums and peaches over woody vanilla.