The Nikka Premium Blended Whisky Limited 2025 (70cl, 48%)

This 2025 edition of The Nikka Premium Blended Whisky was composed jointly by former chief blender Hiromi Ozaki and his successor Junji Iseki. It is a world blend of Japanese and Scotch whiskies, bottled at 48% in a 70cl bottle, and limited to 8,000 bottles worldwide. The components include Miyagikyo and Yoichi malts, Ben Nevis whiskies, malt matured in new Mizunara oak, and Coffey grain alongside grain whiskies from Moji and Satsuma Tsukasa. A 1979 Miyagikyo and a 1989 Yoichi, both matured in Mizunara casks, are among them. The nose combines sea breeze, peat and caramelised crème brûlée, with sesame-like oak and green bamboo. The palate balances fruity sweetness with a dark chocolate bitterness and oak, in a rich, soft texture. The finish is long, with gentle peat and dried fruit.