Nikka Yoichi 10 Year Old

Nose: Initially this whisky had a bit of a rough aroma, but after sitting in the glass for a few minutes it seems to settle down. Vanilla, vague fruit aromas, and light, toasty peat waft out of the glass. I detect a slight herbal bitterness as well.

Taste: Malt and spice are the first to arrive, followed by a wave of peat smoke. The sweetness evolves into something more delicate and floral. I am reminded of Talisker 10 year old in its balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy. There is a bitter edge to the whisky which fades after a splash of water. The whole thing seems rather light-bodied and crisp, with the peat giving it some weight.

Finish: Caramel and vanilla fudge sit beneath a coating of peat smoke. The peat lingers as the rest fades.

Balance: While I agree with those that assert this whisky is a bit young and raw, it does strike a nice balance between sweet, smoky and spicy. Good complexity.

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