Nikka Whisky’s first distillery and guardian of their tradition, Yoichi is located on the coast of Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. Crafted using methods from the past, such as direct coal heating, the Yoichi single malt truly captures the authentic character of its exceptional location, with its refined coastal and peat notes. A subtle blend of Yoichi casks of various ages, of which a large portion was matured in ex-sherry casks, the perfect representative of Nikka’s historic single malt expresses a delicate balance between smoky, fruity and floral aromas.
Nikka Whisky’s first distillery and guardian of their tradition, Yoichi is located on the coast of Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. Crafted using methods from the past, such as direct coal heating, the Yoichi single malt truly captures the authentic character of its exceptional location, with its refined coastal and peat notes. A subtle blend of Yoichi casks of various ages, of which a large portion was matured in ex-sherry casks, the perfect representative of Nikka’s historic single malt expresses a delicate balance between smoky, fruity and floral aromas.
Ratings
WA95
Whisky Advocate
"Nikka’s first distillery is located in the eponymous town on the western coast of Hokkaido. Here, power is the key. Deep and rich with a distinct oiliness — somewhere between linseed and cod liver — there’s also plenty of smoke in the mix as well, and a little hint of black olives in brine with ripe apples lurking behind. I hate making comparisons between Japanese and Scotch single malt but if I was forced to, Yoichi reminds me most of Springbank (edging into Longrow). Water dampens the personality too much for me; best have it full-on and uncompromising. Rather than the palate showing a slow procession of flavors along the tongue, this is a layered whisky; coal-like, oily, and richly fruited with a distinct saltiness on the sides, ably demonstrating that Japan has almost as much variety on offer as scotch."
