Nikka Yoichi Aromatic Yeast 2022 (70cl, 48%)

Yoichi Aromatic Yeast is a single malt from Nikka's Yoichi distillery on Hokkaido, released in 2022 as the second edition of the Nikka Discovery series. It looks at how different yeasts shape flavour during fermentation. Some experimental stocks with an aroma reminiscent of ginjo sake were used, and a low-temperature fermentation supports the fruity, floral side alongside the distillery's firm peaty character. The edition is limited to 20,000 bottles worldwide and is bottled at 48%, non-chill-filtered and with natural colour. The nose opens with herbal, salty peat smoke, then apple, pear, yellow melon, lilies and mint. The palate is firm and lively, with barley and sea spray before earthier peat. The finish is long, with white grape, plum and a trace of liquorice.