Nikka 12 Years Old

Nikka 12 Years Old is a 12 year old blended whisky from Nikka, the house founded by Masataka Taketsuru and owned by Asahi. Combining malt and grain whisky from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries, it was bottled for the European market at 43% and matured in Ex-Bourbon casks.

The blend brings together the two poles of Nikka's malt production: Yoichi, on the Hokkaido coast, contributes its coal-fired, peatier and more robust character, while Miyagikyo from Miyagi Prefecture adds the softer, fruitier and more floral dimension. Over 12 years the Ex-Bourbon maturation builds vanilla and cereal roundness across both components. The kippery, lightly smoky quality in the profile reflects Yoichi's influence, and the age statement gives the blend a measured integration and depth.