Nikka – Taketsuru (70cl, 43%)

Nikka Taketsuru is a Japanese blended malt bottled at 43% ABV in a 70cl bottle. Colouring has been added. It draws partly on the Miyagikyo distillery, described as mild and floral, and partly on the Yoichi distillery, described as oily and smoky, bringing together the different styles of the Nikka distilleries. The nose shows white peach, grapes, almond pastry and marzipan. On the palate come malt, citrus fruit, liquorice, cigar smoke, freshly ground coffee beans and fresh garden herbs, followed by toasted oak. The finish is long, with dark chocolate and a persistent peaty note.