Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 2020 (70cl, 43%)

Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt is a Japanese blended malt made with whisky from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries, named in honour of Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Nikka. It is a non-age-statement bottling at 43% in a 70cl bottle. The 2020 release runs to about 264,000 bottles and uses a higher proportion of Yoichi single malt than earlier versions. The nose has subtle smoke, oak spices, vanilla and floral notes. The palate offers malt sweetness, dried fruits and a touch of nuttiness, with hints of spice and gentle smoke. The finish is smooth and long, with vanilla and oak.