Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt (70cl, 43%)

This is Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt, a Japanese blended malt bottled at 43% in a 70cl bottle. It was launched in 2020 with a refined formula and a new label design. The blend combines soft, elegant character with depth, a rich mouthfeel and some smokiness. The nose is fresh and fruity, with white fruits such as peach and freshly pressed grapes, followed by patisserie notes of amandine, marzipan and biscuit. The palate brings coffee, liquorice, toasted oak and cigars. The finish opens on liquorice candy, turns briefly bitter, then shows camphor and eucalyptus before fading to malted barley.