Nikka Miyagikyo 10 Year Old Single Malt (70cl, 45%)

This is a ten-year-old single malt from the Miyagikyo distillery in the Sendai valley, Miyagi prefecture, in Japan. It comes in a 70cl bottle at 45% ABV. Miyagikyo was set up by Nikka founder Masataka Taketsuru as a contrast to the rougher Yoichi distillery. It uses indirect steam distillation at low temperatures, which gives a clear, fruit-led spirit. The nose is apple and citrus over creamy vanilla. The palate is full and soft, with banana, coconut and a pronounced malty sweetness. A touch of candied ginger adds gentle spice in the finish, and there is no smoke.