Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt

Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt offers a harmonious blend of fruit, honeyed malt, oak spice, and a whisper of smoke. It strikes a thoughtful balance: complex enough for whisky enthusiasts, yet smooth and welcoming for newer drinkers. A modern Japanese classic with depth and elegance.

Origins & Definition

• A blended malt (formerly known as “pure malt”) crafted from malts distilled at Nikka’s Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries, honoring the legacy of founder Masataka Taketsuru
• Bottled at a balanced 43% ABV, meeting the JSMA’s official criteria for Japanese whisky
• The current expression was launched in 2020, replacing older age-statement versions with a refined NAS formula emphasizing complexity and softness

Tasting Profile

• Nose: Creamy honey, vanilla, orchard fruits (pear, apple, starfruit), toasted biscuit, with gentle sherry and peat undertones
• Palate: Silky and round—vanilla, honeyed malt, orchard fruit, roasted oak, cinnamon, light coffee notes, and a discreet smokiness
• Finish: Medium length with lingering oak, soft spice, and subtle peat—elegant and enduring

Style & Appeal

• A medium-bodied, well-balanced blended malt that bridges Yoichi’s peat and Miyagikyo’s fruit.
• Its NAS profile indicates an average age of about 10 years, giving freshness without sacrificing depth
• The 2020 update aims to enhance mouthfeel and complexity versus earlier versions

Serving & Versatility

• Neat or with a splash of water: Amplifies the fruit-and-spice interplay.
• Cocktails: Bold enough for a smoky Old Fashioned or Manhattan, yet balanced enough to enjoy on its own.
• Pairings: Complements smoked fish, cured meats, dark chocolate, or nutty cheeses.