As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and exploring a wide range of whiskies from around the world. When it comes to Japanese whisky, one brand that stands out is Nikka. Nikka is known for producing exceptional whiskies with a distinct character and flavor profile. One of the questions that often arises when discussing Nikka whisky is whether it is peaty.
To answer this question, it is important to understand what peat is and how it influences the flavor of whisky. Peat is a type of soil that is formed from partially decomposed plant material, typically found in bogs and marshes. When used in the whisky production process, peat is dried and then burned to create smoke, which is used to dry the malted barley. This smoke imparts a distinct smoky and earthy flavor to the whisky, known as peatiness.
Nikka offers a range of whiskies, and while some expressions do have a peaty character, not all of their whiskies are peaty. In fact, Nikka's portfolio includes both peated and non-peated whiskies, catering to a variety of preferences and tastes.
One of the limited edition expressions in Nikka's Discovery series is a peated Miyagikyo. Miyagikyo is one of Nikka's two distilleries, located in the Miyagi prefecture. This peated expression showcases the use of peat in the production process, resulting in a whisky with a distinct smoky and earthy character. The peatiness adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile, making it an intriguing choice for peat lovers.
On the other hand, Nikka also offers a non-peated Yoichi expression. Yoichi is Nikka's other distillery, located in the Hokkaido prefecture. This non-peated whisky allows the natural flavors of the malted barley and the oak casks to shine through, without the influence of peat smoke. The result is a whisky that is rich, smooth, and full-bodied, with notes of fruit, spice, and oak.
Having had the opportunity to taste both the peated Miyagikyo and the non-peated Yoichi expressions, I can say that they are both exceptional whiskies in their own right. The peated Miyagikyo offers a unique and captivating experience for peat enthusiasts, while the non-peated Yoichi showcases the craftsmanship and quality of Nikka's whisky production.
While Nikka does produce peaty whiskies, not all of their expressions are peaty. The limited edition peated Miyagikyo and non-peated Yoichi are just two examples of the diverse range of whiskies that Nikka has to offer. Whether you prefer the smoky and earthy flavors of peat or the more delicate and nuanced notes of a non-peated whisky, Nikka has something to satisfy every whisky lover's palate.