Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt (70cl, 43%)

Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt is a Japanese blended malt in a 70cl bottle, bottled at 43% with no age statement. It is made from malt whisky alone, with no grain whisky, and brings together the robust malts of Yoichi and the more elegant character of Miyagikyo. Sherry-matured malts from both distilleries are among its main components, along with malts from refurbished Miyagikyo casks. In 2023 it was named World's Best Blended Malt Whisky at the World Whiskies Awards. Tasting notes describe apple, apricot, vanilla and toasted oak on the nose. On the palate come banana and navel orange with a light malty body and peaty depth, and the finish is sweet with a dark chocolate bitterness.