It's been 3 years since we got a whiff of Nikka's Yoichi and Miyagikyo Grande - and if you'll recall, we thought highly of what seemed like an underrated gem.

And now it seems that Nikka's looking to expand its Grande universe to include the classic Taketsuru blend.

The classic Nikka pure malt blend is named after Nikka Whisky's founder (and Father of Japanese whisky), Masataka Taketsuru, who had voyaged to Scotland to learn whiskymaking before returning as the first to ever done it and bring the craft back to Japan (and a Scottish better half to boot!), and features malt whiskies from Nikka's two flagship Japanese distilleries, Yoichi (in Hokkaido) and Miyagikyo (in Sendai).

The Taketsuru Pure Malt Grande is thus said to feature the same delicate drinkability as the signature Taketsuru Pure Malt, whilst also further highlighting its gorgeous aromas and fruity flavours. It showcases a gentle oak aroma, with a soft sweetness and pleasant bitter aftertaste. It's silver packaging has also been created to express a sophisticated image of the pure malt blend.

The new expression, bottled at 45% ABV (the classic Taketsuru Pure Malt comes in at 43% ABV), will be rolled out across airport duty free shops in Japan from 24th June 2025, with a wider travel retail rollout worldwide from August 2025. It is priced at 14,520 Yen (US$99.50).

Kanpai!

 

88 Bamboo Editorial Team