Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt (75cl, 43%)

A Japanese blended malt from Nikka, bottled at 43% in a 750ml bottle. It vats malt whiskies from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries, with no grain whisky in the blend. Yoichi contributes a powerful, lightly peated spirit distilled in coal-fired pot stills, while Miyagikyo adds a softer, more floral and fruity malt. The nose offers honeyed malt, pear and starfruit, citrus and a delicate hint of peat smoke. On the palate are candied fruit, cinnamon and clove, then cereal grains, grapefruit and soft peat. The finish is long, with dark chocolate, oak spice and a faint salty note.