In the northern reaches of Japan’s Hokkaido island, where icy winds meet rugged coastlines, the Yoichi Distillery has been crafting bold, smoky single malts since 1934. Founded by Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky, Yoichi is known for its traditional coal-fired distillation and distinctly maritime style. The Nikka Yoichi Grande is a rare and limited release, celebrating the distillery’s heritage with a richer, deeper take on its signature profile, offering a taste that bridges Scotland’s old-school craftsmanship with Japanese precision.

Nikka Yoichi Grande 70cl – Limited Release
Brand: Nikka | Category: Japanese Single Malt Whisky | ABV: 45% | Origin: Japan | Vol.: 70cl

Tasting Profile:
Nose: Smoked oak, sea spray, and notes of ripe stone fruit.
Palate: Rich malt sweetness, roasted nuts, gentle spice, and a wave of peat smoke balanced by orchard fruit.
Finish: Long, warming, with lingering smokiness and a touch of salted caramel.

Production Details:
Crafted at the Yoichi Distillery using traditional coal-fired pot stills, a rarity in the modern whisky world and aged in a mix of ex-bourbon and sherry casks to create depth and complexity.

Perfect For:
Collectors, peat lovers, and those who appreciate the fusion of Japanese elegance with old-world whisky-making traditions.

Expert Notes:
A powerful yet refined single malt that retains Yoichi’s signature maritime smokiness while offering extra layers of sweetness and spice.

Customer Reviews:
“An incredible depth, like Yoichi with the volume turned up.”
“Complex and rewarding, worth savouring slowly.”
“A must-have for Japanese whisky enthusiasts.”

Interesting Fact:
The Yoichi distillery’s coastal location allows sea air to naturally season the casks, subtly influencing the whisky’s briny character.

Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy neat to appreciate its complexity, or with a drop of water to open up the layers of fruit and spice.

Distillery Background:
Founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru after training in Scotland, Yoichi remains the beating heart of Nikka’s smoky whisky production. Every bottle reflects his vision of combining Scottish tradition with Japanese craftsmanship, and the Grande is a rare showcase of that legacy.