Whiskyfart
Nikka Whisky From the Barrel
Blended — Japan
Reviewed
August 13, 2022 (edited September 28, 2022)
Wow!
As I was developing my taste for whiskey many moons ago, I came across Nikka Coffey Grain whiskey and was not a fan. At all. I discounted Nikka whiskies in general from that experience.
Fast forward a few years and I got the opportunity to try a taste of Nikka Whiksy From The Barrel. I liked it so much that I purchased a bottle of my very own.
The nose gives me some sweetness bundled in with peat smoke. Not often I get to enjoy a whiskey with a complex NOSE.
The taste is savory and sweet. There's a hint of caramel, then you pick up just the slightest bit of red fruit from the sherry butts. Not overwhelming and if you weren't aware of the cask type.. you may not even notice it.
The finish reminds me of a deeper, more complex Blue Label. As the sweetness fades into the distance, savory peat smoke dances on your tongue.
You know... I'm not one for blended whiskies. But man.... if there are more like Nikka Whisky from the Barrel, I may become a convert.
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@angstrom thanks for the recommendation. I'm not sure when they changed the recipe but my bottle was purchased around Christmas time 2021. It was fine, but wasn't amazing. I am willing to give it another go though.
@Whiskeyfart Spice Tree for sure. Although there was some variation; first bottle was a 5-star stunner. Second was an enjoyable 3-star. Second was right before they changed the recipe, so they may have been stretching the remaining stock. Have not tried the new recipe.
@angstrom I have tried Compass Box spice tree and hedonism before. Both were good but neither blew me away. Which is your favorite?
@Whiskeyfart All of the Compass Box regular line up is also well done blends, but different in style from Nikka WFTB.
@angstrom thank you for the tip =). I feel silly having not really explored good, blended whiskies now and will try your suggestions!
This one is a favorite of mine. Other excellent blends in the same vein are JW Green, JW 18 yr, and Buchanan Red Seal.