Nikka Yoichi 10 Years Old (70cl, 45%)

Nikka Yoichi 10 Years Old is a Japanese single malt from the Yoichi distillery on Hokkaido, bottled at 45% ABV in a 70cl bottle. The distillery was founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru, who chose Hokkaido for its climate, which resembles Scotland's. Yoichi still uses coal-fired stills, and this whisky was matured for ten years in a mix of cask types. The nose has peat smoke and sea air with apples, citrus and a hint of vanilla. The palate is powerful but elegant, with peat smoke, spice, salty notes, sweet malt and dark chocolate, in an oily, full texture. The finish is very long, with lingering smoke, maritime notes and a subtle sweetness.