Nikka Yoichi Single Malt Whisky

Product Description

Yoichi Single Malt: Scotland's Spirit, Reimagined in Hokkaido

Nikka Yoichi Single Malt comes from Nikka's first distillery, built in 1934 by founder Masataka Taketsuru in the town of Yoichi on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island. Taketsuru chose the location specifically because its cool climate and coastal air reminded him of Scotland, where he'd trained in whisky-making years earlier. This non-age-statement release was introduced in 2016 as a permanent replacement for Yoichi's age-stated lineup, launched after a stock shortage forced Nikka to blend single malts of varying ages into one representative expression of the distillery's style.

How Nikka Yoichi Single Malt Is Made

This whisky is distilled from 100% malted barley using heavily peated malt and Yoichi's traditional direct coal-fired pot stills, a rare and labor-intensive method even by Scotch standards. It's aged in new American oak and sherry casks, developing a briny character from the sea breeze that moves through the warehouses during maturation. That combination of peat and coastal influence gives Yoichi its signature robust, smoky style. It's bottled at 45% ABV.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Soft smoke with apricots and spices.

Palate: A balance of peat, fresh fruit, and nuts.

Finish: Long and silky, with ripe pear, plum, and apple.

Food Pairings

The apricot and smoke character in Yoichi Single Malt pairs beautifully with smoked salmon, grilled shellfish, or aged cheeses. Its fruit and nut notes also complement a simple almond tart.

Serving Suggestions

Yoichi Single Malt is best enjoyed neat in a tulip-shaped glass or Glencairn, letting its peat and fruit character fully develop. A few drops of water can help soften the smoke for those who prefer a gentler pour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't this whisky have an age statement? Nikka introduced this blend in 2016 after a shortage of aged stock forced the discontinuation of Yoichi's age-stated releases.

What casks is this whisky aged in? New American oak and sherry casks.

What proof is this whisky? 45% ABV (90 proof).

How is Yoichi different from Miyagikyo? Yoichi is bolder, smokier, and more coastal, while Miyagikyo leans lighter, fruitier, and more floral.

Explore More

Looking for more from this legendary Japanese whisky house? Shop the full Nikka collection for Miyagikyo, Taketsuru, and the returning Yoichi 10 Year, or browse our complete Japanese Whiskey collection for more from Japan's top distilleries.

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