Nikka Tailored and Taketsuru Pure Malt will be available at selected on- and off-trade partners from October and November respectively
The first release is Nikka Tailored, a premium blend combining Miyagikyo and Yoichi malts with Nikka grain whisky (a corn-based whisky distilled in traditional Coffey stills). The main influence of the maturation comes from American oak and ex-Sherry casks.
Nikka describes the liquid as displaying notes of 'apple, apricot and white-fleshed fruits. Strong presence of honey, as well as aromas of chocolate and candied orange peel' on the nose, while on the palate, it presents 'vanilla, hazelnut, raisin and honey flavours' with a 'lightly toasted finish'.
The second expression, due to be released in November, is named after Nikka's founder, Masataka Taketsuru, and replaces the brand's Pure Malt expression.
Taketsuru Pure Malt is a blend of aged single malt casks from Yoichi and Miyagikyo, with a higher portion of Yoichi giving the whisky an expressive character. The main influence comes from ex-Sherry casks and Miyagikyo which has been aged in American oak.
On the nose, it is said to have 'citrus aromas like orange and juicy pear notes' moving into 'light herbaceous aromas with a hint of peat and a slight bitterness, as it flows from orange to grapefruit'.
'Cereal flavours stand alongside sweet spice with a touch of cardamom' on the palate alongside 'candied fruit notes' with a slight bitterness on the finish 'reminiscent of a full-bodied dark chocolate'.
Both expressions will be exclusively distributed by Speciality Brands.
Nikka Tailored, 43% abv, RRP £110/700ml; Taketsuru Pure Malt expression, 43% abv, RRP £60/700ml, Speciality Brands, specialitybrands.com
