Nikka Miyagikyo 12 Year Old
Japan never disappoints
0 392
Review by @MaltActivist
- Nose23
- Taste23
- Finish23
- Balance23
- Overall92
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- Brand: Nikka Miyagikyo
- Type: Japanese
- ABV: 45%
I have yet to come across a Japanese whisky that I didn't like. Sure, some are better than others but generally any expression with Kanji symbols on the label is going to be good. And so is the case with this Miyagikyou 12.
A nice nutty nose brimming with honey coated almonds sprinkled over a bowl of treacle with a burnt caramel topping. Finally a drizzle of brandy and coconut shavings give way to something a touch floral.
Here's where I'm a little stumped. The palate screams unmistakeable sherry but my research shows none of that. Nevertheless there are typical sherry notes in this expression. Honey and clove mixed with big fat red grapes followed by a pleasant cinnamon spiciness and ending with burnt citrus, aniseed and a pod of cardamom.
The dry finish is quite long and has a playful licorice twang to it.
But I keep going back to the palate - I'm sure there is a sherry cask in there. Somewhere!
Find where to buy Nikka Miyagikyo whisky
Yes the Japanese are good at taking an excellent product and tweaking it to be more reliable. As for the highs and lows of sheer whisky genius and wanton stupidity, not there for me in what I have been able to try, but some very delicious offerings to be sure. It's amazing how some exotic flavors creep into their whiskies, such as anise and cloves. I am interested in trying some higher end offerings. Not to be found in Portland.