Nikka Yoichi 1991 Single Cask Malt cask #129459

This Yoichi single cask matured for a full 23 years in a virgin oak puncheon. It was distilled on 28 February 1991. In July 2014 it was bottled at a staggering 62% (which makes me believe it was not put to sleep at the industry standard of 63,5%). The virgin oak gave it a beautiful dark color.

When the label says ‘heavily peated’, I naturally expect a peat bomb. But on the nose, it is nothing of the sort. I get mostly red berries, strawberries and blood oranges. The peat translates into a herbal background like a blanket of ferns, pine cones and a mild smokiness. Loads of spices, but that is no surprise, seeing as it was virgin oak. It becomes sweeter as you leave it to breath. This is quite wonderful!

The attack is powerful and spicy. Next to the fruit, which turns slightly bitter (grapefruit? walnuts?) I get loads of peat and oak on the palate. Not over the top, but certainly dominant. It even turns a bit medicinal, which I can appreciate. Cloves, cayenne pepper and liquorice. Caramel joins the fray so it does not turn too bitter. Nicely balanced, that much must be said.

The long finish stands out because of it smokiness and sweetness, while allowing the spices the final word. At the death, an uprising of salt emerges. Wonderful.

Absolutely delightful Yoichi. Around 700 EUR, but hard to find. Not that I am looking for it with such a price tag. But if you come across this at a festival (like I did), make sure you try it. Oh, lest I forget. It was just named the Ultra Premium Supreme Winner at the Malt Maniac Awards 2014. Just sayin’.

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