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

Yoichi Aromatic Yeast is a limited-edition single malt from Nikka's Discovery series, released in 2022 and bottled at 48% in a 70cl bottle. The outturn was 4,800 bottles. It explores how specialised fermentation affects the distillery's character: unusual yeast strains bring bright, fruit-forward aromatics reminiscent of Ginjo sake to Yoichi's usual earthy peat and sea spray, in place of its traditional heavy, coal-fired intensity. The nose is herbaceous and smoky, with apple, pear, melon and floral notes of lily and carnation. The palate is firm and lively, with sea spray, peat, plum and greengage, and the finish is long and crisp with white grape, plum and a touch of liquorice.