Nikka brings Discovery 2022 whiskies to UK
Japanese whisky producer Nikka will release its Discovery 2022 expressions in the UK next month through Speciality Brands.
In September 2022, Nikka released Yoichi Single Malt Aromatic Yeast (48% ABV) and Miyagikyo Single Malt Aromatic Yeast (47% ABV) as part of its Discovery series. It followed the launch of the first two bottlings in the range in 2021. The expressions highlight ‘unique’ aromas generated through fermentation. The brand said it had been conducting experimental whisky making using various yeast cultures at different scale, such as laboratory tests, pilot plant trials, and small batch production. These continuous experiments result in a wide variety of whiskies with distinctive aromas, the brand said. The limited edition line aims to highlight the brand’s whisky-making expertise while ‘overturning preconceptions about single malt’. Yoichi Single Malt Aromatic Yeast is partly made from a batch that has an estery aroma reminiscent of daiginjo sake. It was produced using low-temperature fermentation. The whisky offers a ‘floral and fruit-driven character’, with ‘salty, earthy and smoky’ notes and a ‘herbaceous’ aroma. Meanwhile, Miyagikyo Single Malt Aromatic Yeast has a ‘deeply malty character’, carrying notes of lavender, marshmallow and stone fruits. This unpeated single malt comes from the use of yeasts that encourage the development of fruity aromas and flavours, according to the brand. Only 4,800 bottles of each whisky have been released in Europe. The expressions will launch in select UK retailers from February 2023, each priced at RRP £245 (US$299) per 700ml bottle.
The brand said it would continue to develop limited editions whiskies under the Discovery series.
Both bottlings featured in our top 50 innovative spirits launches of 2022 list.
