Is Nikka real Japanese whiskey?
Nikka is indeed a real Japanese whiskey. It is one of the most renowned and respected whiskey producers in Japan, second only to Suntory. Nikka has a long and rich history in the world of whiskey, and their products have gained a loyal following both within Japan and internationally.
Nikka was founded by Masataka Taketsuru, often referred to as the “Father of Japanese Whiskey,” in 1934. Taketsuru was a passionate and dedicated individual who traveled to Scotland to master the art of whiskey-making. He studied the traditional Scottish methods and techniques, learning the secrets of creating exceptional whiskey. Upon his return to Japan, Taketsuru founded Nikka and brought his newfound knowledge and skills to revolutionize the Japanese whiskey industry.
One of the most notable aspects of Nikka whiskey is the use of traditional Scottish methods combined with Japanese craftsmanship. The company operates two distilleries, Yoichi and Miyagikyo, which are located in different regions of Japan to take advantage of the unique climate and terroir of each area. The Yoichi distillery, situated in Hokkaido, produces robust and peaty whiskies reminiscent of Scottish single malts. On the other hand, the Miyagikyo distillery, located in Sendai, creates smoother and more delicate whiskies.
Nikka offers a wide range of whiskey expressions, catering to different tastes and preferences. Their single malt offerings, such as the Yoichi and Miyagikyo ranges, showcase the distinct characteristics of each distillery. The Yoichi single malts, with their smoky and peaty profiles, appeal to fans of Islay whiskies, while the Miyagikyo single malts offer a more refined and elegant flavor profile.
In addition to their single malts, Nikka also produces blended whiskies under the Taketsuru range. These blends are created by expert blenders who carefully select and combine different malt and grain whiskies to achieve a harmonious and balanced final product. The Taketsuru range pays homage to Masataka Taketsuru himself, and the whiskies embody his vision and passion for creating exceptional Japanese whiskey.
Furthermore, Nikka is also known for its Coffey range, which refers to the use of Coffey stills for distillation. These stills, originally invented by Aeneas Coffey, allow for continuous distillation and produce a lighter style of whiskey. Nikka has been using Coffey stills since the 1960s, and their Coffey grain and Coffey malt whiskies have gained a loyal following for their unique flavors and smoothness.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and experiencing the wonders of Nikka whiskey firsthand. The attention to detail in their production process, the quality of their ingredients, and the craftsmanship involved in creating each expression truly set Nikka apart as a real Japanese whiskey.
Nikka is undeniably a real Japanese whiskey. With its rich history, commitment to traditional methods, and diverse range of expressions, Nikka has established itself as a respected and beloved name in the world of whiskey. Whether you're a fan of single malts, blended whiskies, or unique Coffey still expressions, Nikka offers something for every whiskey lover.