Nikka Whisky marks the return of age statements to its U.S. portfolio with debut of Yoichi Single Malt 10-Year-Old.
The first age statement to come from the brand in several years, the release of Nikka Yoichi Single Malt 10-Year-Old commemorates 10 buildings located within the Yoichi Distillery site that received special designation as Japan’s “Important Cultural Properties” in February 2022, a nod to Nikka Whisky’s historical contribution to Japanese whisky.
“We are honored for the Yoichi Distillery to receive this designation from Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs,” says Emiko Kaji, Nikka Whisky Global Marketing and Sales General Manager. “This designation helps ensure we will pass on the history of Japanese whisky to future generations. To celebrate this special honor, we welcomed the return of Nikka Whisky aged statements and released the Yoichi Single Malt 10-Year-Old, a new expression created by the current blenders.”
The Yoichi Single Malt 10-Year-Old reflects the characteristics of the Yoichi Distillery, Nikka Whisky’s first distillery built in 1934 on the coast of Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. Proximity to the sea is one of the features of Yoichi, the company says, providing “cold climate, crisp clean air and a briny hint to the whisky during maturation.”
This spirit was made using traditional methods that Nikka Whisky’s founder, Masataka Taketsuru, learned in Scotland, such as direct coal-fired distillation.
“A momentous moment for Nikka Whisky, we are so excited to bring the release of Yoichi Single Malt 10-Year-Old to the U.S.,” says Hotaling & Co. CEO and President Dan Leese. “As Nikka Whisky looks to celebrate its 90th anniversary in 2024, this release is a testament to their historical significance in the world of whisky and a preview of what’s to come as they continue to build and enrich their traditional range.”
Nikka Whisky Yoichi Single Malt 10-Year-Old is 90 proof. It will be available ongoing with limited quantities released annually. The suggested retail price is $175 per 750-ml. bottle.
