Nikka Yoichi Sherry & Sweet (55%)

This is a Key Malt release from the Yoichi distillery of Nikka in Japan, bottled at a cask strength of 55%. It is matured in sherry casks, which bring a deep, sweet character. The distillery's traditional direct coal-fired stills are used, and the whisky leaves out heavy peat so that the sherry cask brings out dried fruit sweetness. The nose is full and rich, with raisins, sherry, toasted bread, dry oak and cinnamon. On the palate raisin sweetness leads, with dark chocolate, ground coffee and clove. The finish is of medium length, with charred wood and caramel.