When I started to develop a deeper interest in whisky, I started with drams from Scotland and Ireland. I then  went on to explore Swedish and German products, but somehow Asian whisky did not appear on my radar for quite some time. But when I came across this Nikka From The Barrel about a year ago, it did not take me longer than a second to realise what a great whisky I had in my glass. Nikka From The Barrel is a blend of malt whiskies from Miyagikyo and Yoichi as well as a grain whisky. Though it only says on the bottle that the Nikka From The Barrel received a double maturation, it is quite obvious that a good deal of the spirit was matured in sherry casks. Bottled at cask strength, this whisky is surprisingly smooth and fruity. Another big advantage: The design of the bottle is not only extraordinary and beautiful, but it also has a very handy size. You can easily put it into your rucksack when you are out for a walk and enjoy a good dram from time to time.

by Aaron

Eye: Red and brown rusty copper.
Nose: Sweet and fruity notes with raisins, red fruits, some orange and a lot of plums. Furthermore, there are also some spicy and oaky notes in the background.
Palate: There is more orange on your tongue than there was in your nose. But all the other fruity components also reappear. Plums, cherries and even some exotic fruits combined with sweet honey and vanilla. The spiciness stays in the background.
Finish: Medium long and surprisingly smooth for a whisky bottled at an ABV of 51.4%. When the fruits are gone, a pleasant spicy aftertaste remains.

Type: Blended Whisky
Region: Japan
Age: No Age Statement
Alc. volume: 51.4%
Bottle size: 0.5 litres
Price range: ~35.00 Euro
More info: http://www.nikka.com/ (Distillery)