Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt Old Label Bottling (70cl, 43%)

A blended malt from Nikka, vatted from Yoichi and Miyagikyo whiskies and named in honour of Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Nikka. This is an older label bottling with its earlier style of box, at 43% ABV in a 70cl bottle. Most age statements in the Taketsuru range have been discontinued, but this non age statement version remains one of Nikka's signature whiskies. It is matured in sherry and various other casks, and this older version reportedly has a higher proportion of Miyagikyo single malt, which adds an extra layer of sherry wood influence. Nikka describes it as gentle in malt flavour, fruity and well balanced.