Description

Yoichi Single Malt Bottling Note

Yoichi in Hokkaido, a land deemed ideal by founder Masataka Taketsuru for whisky making, is where this single malt whisky is born. It is characterized by a profound and robust complexity. The mellow aroma of barrel aging harmonizes exquisitely with the sweetness of malt and rich fruit notes, complemented by a powerful peat flavor, toasted nuances, and a lingering sweetness of oak with a smoky finish.

Taketsuru recognized the striking similarity between Yoichi’s cool, humid climate and that of Scotland, the home of whisky, and was convinced it was the perfect terroir for whisky maturation. Furthermore, the distillery’s proximity to the clear subterranean waters of the Yoichi River ensured a vital water source essential for whisky production.

Faithful to traditional Scottish whisky-making methods, Yoichi Single Malt is a distinctly peated and slightly briny style, rare among Japanese whiskies. The meticulous attention paid to cask selection imparts complex layers, including vanilla notes and rich flavors derived from sherry casks, earning it high acclaim from whisky enthusiasts both in Japan and internationally.

Crafted using a globally uncommon direct coal-fired distillation method, Yoichi whisky develops a powerful and full-bodied character. It’s a unique single malt with a firm structure, woody notes, peaty aromas, and a signature saltiness. The prominent heavy peated malt is supported by malt aged in new oak and sherry casks, which contribute to its substantial body and deep woody character.

A key feature of the Yoichi Distillery is its six pot stills – four for the first distillation and two for the second – with the primary distillation employing direct coal firing. The unique straight-head pot stills with downward-sloping lyne arms are also distinctive. This design causes the vapor to cool more quickly, allowing a wider range of non-alcoholic compounds to remain in the distilled spirit, resulting in Yoichi’s masculine, deep, and complex flavor profile. Additionally, the subtle char from the 800-1000°C direct coal fire and the sea breeze blowing in from Ishikari Bay impart a roasted and maritime character to the malt.

In contrast to the well-balanced profiles of Suntory’s Yamazaki and Hakushu, Nikka Whisky’s Yoichi Single Malt is defined by its pronounced peatiness and smokiness. It stands as a symbol of the distinctiveness between Japan’s two major whisky makers. Yoichi’s bold and somewhat untamed masculine character evokes strong opinions among enthusiasts, creating a dedicated following.

A variety of casks, including bourbon barrels, sherry butts, and new oak barrels, are used for maturation, with meticulous vatting and blending to maximize its unique qualities. The Yoichi Single Malt, the embodiment of Masataka Taketsuru’s vision to create a whisky with a distinct character that could rival the finest Scotch, was first released in 1989, 55 years after the founding of Nikka Whisky.

Yoichi Single Malt Tasting Note

Nose: The aroma of Yoichi Single Malt begins with a harmonious blend of mellow barrel-aged notes, the sweetness of malt, and rich fruitiness. Alongside a gentle peatiness, the initial impression is a cereal-like scent derived from the malt. The toasty aroma, reminiscent of slightly burnt grain, is characteristic of the mash heated through the rare direct coal-fired distillation. Furthermore, the fruity notes of banana and mango come from Nikka’s unique yeast strains, layered with a citrusy brightness and a subtle paper-like nuance. Deeper in, there are hints of vanilla and cream, along with a faint touch of soap and smoke.

Palate: Upon tasting, the profile shifts from the nose, with robust peat, smoke, and maritime notes taking center stage. The aroma of the heavy peated spirit rising through the nasal passages truly defines Yoichi’s profound character. While there’s a slight astringency and bitterness, the sweetness derived from the oak casks spreads richly across the palate and lingers gently. The toasted malt and orangey fruit flavors add depth to the complex taste.

Finish: The finish is marked by a warm, lingering sweetness of oak and smokiness. A tingling salinity and the pleasant aroma of peaty smoke leave a lasting impression. Despite the noticeable smokiness, it lacks any harsh edges, making it approachable.

Overall: Yoichi is a full-bodied and satisfying whisky, built upon a foundation of sweetness from sherry casks, followed by successive layers of malt flavor and rich fruitiness. The diverse flavors exist in a complex yet delicate balance, inviting a thorough and appreciative exploration of its profound character.