Nikka Miyagikyo Single Malt Whisky (70cl, 45%)

Nikka Miyagikyo is a single malt from the Miyagikyo distillery in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, bottled at 45% in a 70cl bottle. Masataka Taketsuru founded the distillery in 1969 as his second, and it is now owned by Asahi Group Holdings. It was built in a valley, in contrast to the coastal Yoichi distillery, and uses pot stills heated by indirect steam, with a focus on an elegant, fruity style. A sherry cask influence is noted. The colour is deep gold. The nose has iris, malted barley, banana, liquorice and a hint of burnt wood. The palate is firm yet elegant, with herbal barley, ginger, cinnamon and chocolate. The long, soft finish recalls wilted roses, tobacco and stewed apple and damson.