Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky 45% ABV, 0.7l, in a gift box

Description

Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky 45% ABV, 0.7l, in a gift box

Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky is an exceptional Japanese whisky, produced from 100 per cent malted barley, but which takes an unconventional approach to distillation. Instead of classic pot stills, Nikka uses traditional Coffey stills – continuous distillation stills based on the principle of the still patented by Aeneas Coffey in 1830. Nikka’s founder, Masataka Taketsuru, first became acquainted with this method of distillation as early as 1919 during his stay in Scotland. The first Coffey still was imported from Scotland to Japan in 1963, and the second in 1966. Although these historic stills are more labour-intensive and less efficient than modern continuous stills, Nikka values them for their ability to preserve the character of the raw materials and produce distillates with a particularly creamy texture.

Nikka Coffey Malt was developed in 2013 as part of the Japanese producer’s ongoing experimentation. After the whisky – produced from 100 per cent malted barley – has been distilled in Coffey stills, it is matured in older casks, which further enhances its malty character, complexity and silky texture. One distinctive feature concerns its classification: although only malted barley is used, this bottling is classified as a grain whisky rather than a malt whisky due to its distillation in Coffey stills. At 45 per cent, the whisky is presented in a 0.7-litre bottle complete with a gift box. The unusual combination of pure barley malt, traditional Coffey still distillation and Japanese whisky-making techniques makes this bottling a unique speciality within Nikka’s range.

Tasting Note

Colour: Gold to amber.

Nose: Fruity and spicy with pronounced citrus notes and Williams pear, accompanied by pepper, vanilla, balsamic vinegar and a subtle hint of coffee.

Palate: Creamy and complex with sweet mandarins and oranges, coffee, pralines and vanilla, followed by plums, mirabelle plums and apricots.

Finish: Long-lasting, spicy and sweet with fruity, malty and delicately toasted nuances.

Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky is particularly well suited to being enjoyed neat at room temperature, although a few drops of still water can further bring out its fruity and malty facets. Alternatively, it can be served over a large ice cube or as a classic Japanese highball with soda and ice. Culinary pairings include roasted nuts, dark chocolate, desserts featuring orange or apricot, and mild hard cheeses, which complement its creamy, fruity profile. Thanks to the gift box and its exceptional production from 100 per cent malted barley in Coffey stills, this bottling also makes an interesting gift for lovers of Japanese whiskies.