Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt (75cl, 43%)

This is a vatted malt from Nikka at 43% ABV, in a 750ml bottle. It combines single malts from the company's two distilleries, Yoichi in Hokkaido and Miyagikyo in Sendai, with no grain whisky in the mix. The whisky is matured in sherry butts, bourbon barrels and new American oak. It is named after Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Nikka, and pairs the smoky directness of Yoichi with the lighter, fruitier Miyagikyo style. The nose is described as dried fruit, vanilla, honey and a hint of smoke. The palate is smooth, with malt, fruit, subtle oak and a touch of peat, leading to a long, gently sweet finish.