Subtle, light, and featuring delicate high notes. Initially, it presents as a concentrated burst of sweetness, just barely contained by what seems to be brief cask influence. However, this is misleading, as the sponge candy, once prominent, transforms into significant oak and darkening tannins. A genuine surprise that makes the profile challenging to categorize. This spirit would excel in a highball prepared in the Japanese style, but as a special release, few will likely choose that path. Nonetheless, enjoyed by itself, Nikka The Grain showcases the exceptional talent of expert blending. For collectors of Japanese whisky, this refined release is among the best available in 2023.
Nikka The Grain Whisky
Whiskey Japanese Whisky Japan No age statement 48% ABV
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About this bottle
Nikka's limited edition Discovery Series showcases diverse whisky-making methods the company has employed historically. This 2023 release, concluding the series, delves into Nikka's grain whiskies from four of its distilleries: Miyagikyo, Nishinomiya (no longer operating), Moji, and Satsumatsukasa. The blend centers on Coffey grain from Miyagikyo, incorporating experimental new grain whisky made from corn and rye. It became available in October 2023, with the U.S. receiving an allocation of 2,600 bottles with a suggested retail price of $174.99.
How it tastes
Measured across 14 flavor axes. Tap a note to find other bottles that lead with it.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 2 parsed reviews.
Delicate and refined with hints of honey, brown sugar, cotton candy, banana taffy, citrus zest, sakura, almonds, green tea, bubble gum, and plums. Smell: Vanilla, White Chocolate, Banana Taffy, Cotton Candy, Sakura, Plums, Caramel, Brown Sugar, Bubble Gum, Sandalwood, Zesty Lemon Peels, Orange Peels, Sour Green Apples Taste: Vanilla, Honey, Toffee, Brown Sugar, Graham Crackers, Marshmallows, Green Tea, Plums, Sour Cherries, Sakura, Almonds, Dark Chocolate, Banana Bread, Almond Pastries Aftertaste: Vanilla, Brown Sugar, Honey, Bubble Gum, Peaches, Sour Cherries, Apricots, Green Tea, Oats, Banana Taffy
Tastes like this
Closest flavor profiles across the whole catalog.