Experience the pinnacle of Japanese whisky craftsmanship with Taketsuru Aged 17 Years Pure Malt. This exquisite expression offers a harmonious blend of fruit, spice, and a whisper of smoke, matured to perfection for nearly two decades. A testament to Nikka's legendary art, it promises an unparalleled sipping experience.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and inviting bouquet, showcasing dried stone fruit esters—think apricot and plum—intertwined with complex nutty notes of almond and hazelnut. Subtle hints of sandalwood and aged leather emerge, alongside a touch of delicate floral honey and faint baking spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, indicating long maturation.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and medium-bodied, coating the mouth with a velvety texture. Initial flavors of sweet malt and vanilla are swiftly followed by a rich tapestry of dark chocolate, dried figs, and a gentle oak spice that is polished rather than aggressive. A delicate smokiness, characteristic of Nikka's peated malt influence, provides depth without overwhelming the fruit and nut characteristics. There's a subtle salinity that balances the sweetness.

Finish: The finish is exceptionally long and elegant, slowly fading with lingering notes of dark fruit, espresso, and a remarkably clean, almost mineralic oak presence. The light peat smoke returns, mingling with a gentle warmth and a hint of dark chocolate bitterness, leaving a refined and memorable impression.

About the Distillery

The Nikka Whisky Distilling Co., LTD, founded by Masataka Taketsuru, is one of Japan's most revered whisky producers. Taketsuru, often regarded as the 'father of Japanese whisky,' studied whisky making in Scotland in the early 20th century. Nikka operates two distinct distilleries, Yoichi and Miyagikyo, each contributing unique characteristics to its blended whiskies. The Taketsuru line, named in his honor, represents Nikka's commitment to blended malts, showcasing the synergy between their diverse output. While this is primarily a Japanese malt whisky, not a bourbon, its profile is often appreciated by similar palates.