NIKKA - TAKETSURU 17 YEARS OLD 43% PURE MALT

Japan's rich history of whisky production is beautifully encapsulated in the NIKKA - Taketsuru 17 Years Old 43% Pure Malt. This exceptional expression from the esteemed Nikka Whisky Distilling Co. represents not just the art of whisky making but also a loving tribute to Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky. With its intricate blend of nuances and aged maturity, this bottle serves as a sensory journey into the heart of Japanese craftsmanship.

The refined spirit is named after Masataka Taketsuru, who founded Nikka Whisky in 1934. An important figure in the realm of whisky, Taketsuru is revered for travelling to Scotland in 1918 to learn the intricacies of whisky-making firsthand. His return to Japan, armed with vital knowledge, marked the beginning of whisky production in the country. The Taketsuru 17 not only honors his legacy but also his passion for creating whiskies that mirror the complex character of the Scottish drams he once studied.

This 17-year-old pure malt is a vibrant representation of the prestigious lineage of Nikka. Crafted with whiskies from both Miyagikyo and Yoichi distilleries, it brings together the softer, fruit-forward style of Miyagikyo with the robust, peaty character of Yoichi, resulting in a complex yet harmoniously balanced dram. Aged for 17 years, this whisky has absorbed the essence of the Japanese oak it slumbered in, which imparts a distinctive smoothness and depth to the palate.

The nosing experience of the Taketsuru 17 is an inviting prelude, laden with aromas of ripe fruits, nuts, and a hint of smoky oak. As you sip, the flavors unfold gracefully, showcasing layers of caramel, malt chocolate, and a distinctive spicy oak that whispers tales of its long maturation period. The finish is long and warming, with a subtle smokiness and the lingering sweetness of dried fruit and spices.

Bottled at 43% ABV and contained in a standard 70 cl vessel, this spirit strikes a perfect balance, making it both a delightful sipping whisky and a profound specimen for collectors. Nikka, since its inception, has been renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation. The distiller's ability to convey the richness of Japanese terroir while adhering to, and evolving, the Scottish tradition of whisky-making, is what sets Nikka apart in the global whisky scene.

Nikka's Taketsuru 17 Years Old is more than just a whisky; it is a tribute to tradition, a nod to the enduring legacy of a visionary, and a testament to the precise craftsmanship. Whether you are a connoisseur of Japanese whiskies or a newcomer eager to explore the genre, this expression offers a compelling narrative in each drop. Its alluring complexity and sublime maturity make it a distinguished member in the upper echelons of the world's finest whiskies.

In summary, the Nikka Taketsuru 17 Years Old Pure Malt is a profound reflection of both the heritage of its namesake and the pioneering spirit of Nikka. It bridges the old with the new, the East with the West, creating a malt whisky that is both evocative and vibrantly individual. For those seeking to dive deep into the essence of Japanese whisky, the Taketsuru 17 is a journey well worth taking.