{"title":"The Best-Value Japanese Whisky","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"nikka-discovery-miyagikyo-peated-yoichi-non-peated-set-2021","title":"Nikka Discovery Miyagikyo Peated \u0026 Yoichi Non-Peated Set 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhen we talk about whisky from Yoichi and Miyagikyo, we generally expect the former to be heavier and richer, with layers of peat smoke throughout, and the latter to be lighter with fruity and floral tones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, for the exciting new Discovery Series, Nikka appear to have flipped the switch. The first of the two new releases is the “Yoichi Non-Peated” and, according to the back label, it “offers a pleasant surprise that overturns the preconceived ‘Peaty’ image of Yoichi”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstead, it aims to bring a delicate balance of “bright fruitiness and rich mouthfeel” all backed up by a distinctive smokiness imparted by coal-fired distillation. The smokiness in this whisky is likely to be quite different from the unique flavour of peat smoke, instead bringing aromas and flavours more akin to a smouldering barbecue than anything else.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s a step away from the distillery’s usual characteristics and one that opens up the possibilities for a range of very different Yoichi expressions, unlike anything we have seen so far. Much like the Yoichi, Nikka have taken a step away from the norm with their new Miyagikyo single malt. The “Miyagikyo Peated” was created using peated malt and, as stated on the back label, “offers a pleasant surprise that overturns the preconceived ‘floral and fruity’ image of Miyagikyo”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstead, it will bring a boldness made of rich flavours that combine with the instantly recognisable peat smoke to create a whisky that is world’s apart from what we are used to from the distillery. As a result, this is set to be a truly intriguing release and one that we know millions around the world will be keen to try.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike the Yoichi, it opens the door for a vastly different array of bottlings from the distillery and this could change the landscape of Nikka whiskies forever, which is something that we can all get excited about. Quantities of these bottles are highly limited, so order online today if you want to secure yours.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45699642458348,"sku":"S2906","price":579.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/0906\/7500\/files\/Nikka-Discovery-Miyagikyo-Peated-Yoichi-Non-Peated-Set-1.webp?v=1725740051"},{"product_id":"yamazaki-12-year-old","title":"Yamazaki 12 Year Old","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"146\" data-end=\"590\"\u003eFirst introduced in 1984, Yamazaki 12 Year Old is a cornerstone of the Yamazaki core range and a defining expression of Japanese single malt whisky. As the first Japanese whisky to gain international recognition, it played a pivotal role in establishing Suntory’s reputation on the world stage, earning numerous accolades over the years. Decades later, it remains a benchmark not only for Japanese whisky but for whisky craftsmanship worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"592\" data-end=\"828\"\u003eIn 2018, Yamazaki 12 unveiled its iconic black packaging, marking a bold design update that reflects the whisky’s refined elegance and deep heritage. Crafted at Japan’s oldest malt whisky distillery, Yamazaki 12 is known for its elegant balance, drawing depth from a carefully curated selection of casks. American oak barrels provide a smooth vanilla sweetness, Spanish oak sherry casks add rich dried fruit and spice, while Mizunara oak—Suntory’s signature—imparts subtle incense-like aromatics unique to Japanese whisky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1204\" data-end=\"1538\"\u003eThe whisky’s journey begins with meticulously sourced barley and the pure waters of the Oyamazaki region, which lend a soft, almost ethereal character to the new-make spirit. Distilled in a variety of pot stills, the spirit gains layers of complexity before aging in the misty, temperate climate of the Yamazaki maturation warehouses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1540\" data-end=\"1799\"\u003eWith notes of honey, dried fruit, coconut, and gentle spice, Yamazaki 12 Year Old is a masterpiece of balance. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water, it remains a timeless classic for both connoisseurs and those new to Japanese whisky.\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45699684827372,"sku":"N3102","price":319.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/0906\/7500\/files\/Untitled_design_2.png?v=1728050628"},{"product_id":"nikka-whisky-from-the-barrel-with-box","title":"Nikka Whisky From the Barrel (With Box)","description":"\u003cp\u003eNikka Whisky From The Barrel is an uncompromising expression of Japanese whisky craftsmanship: powerful, precise, and masterfully blended. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreated by Nikka's legendary blenders, this award-winning whisky brings together over 100 distinct malt and grain components from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries, each carefully selected for their character and harmony.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce blended, the whisky is re-casked, a process known as “marriage”, allowing the components to meld and mature together. This extra step deepens complexity, rounds off the edges, and creates a whisky with extraordinary balance and boldness. It’s whisky blending elevated to an art form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBottled at 51.4% ABV, it delivers a rich, full-bodied experience without sacrificing its elegance. \u003cbr\u003ePresented in its iconic square bottle, Nikka From The Barrel is a bold statement in minimalism - a whisky that speaks volumes without saying much at all. It’s a modern classic that continues to impress connoisseurs and newcomers alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOn the Nose\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpiced oak, dried apricot, clove, toffee, and a touch of rose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOn the Palate\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFull-bodied and complex - with caramelised pear, cinnamon, roasted nuts, and dark chocolate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eThe Finish\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLingering warmth with charred oak, pepper, and a whisper of smoke.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Nikka\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNikka represents the perfect harmony of tradition and innovation in Japanese whisky. Founded by Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky, Nikka marries Scottish technique with a distinctly Japanese sensibility. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrom the bold, coastal character of Yoichi to the elegance of Miyagikyo, each expression reflects masterful craftsmanship, balance, and depth. With a legacy built on precision and passion, Nikka continues to define what modern Japanese whisky can be.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45699687481580,"sku":"N2260","price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/0906\/7500\/files\/Untitleddesign_39.png?v=1744905050"},{"product_id":"nikka-yoichi-10-years-old","title":"Nikka Yoichi 10 Years Old","description":"\u003cp\u003eJapanese whisky fans around the globe will be delighted to hear that drinks giant, Nikka, responsible for whisky from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo Distilleries, as well as world blended expressions including the hugely popular Nikka From The Barrel, have just announced the return of one of their finest age statement whiskies – the Yoichi 10 Year Old.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s been years since this whisky was in production, having been discontinued at the beginning of the now well-documented Japanese whisky shortage. Nikka were one of the worst hit by the supply\/demand issues at the time and they quickly stopped producing a number of expressions, particularly those that featured an age-statement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe return of the wonderful Yoichi 10 is great news for whisky fans for a couple of reasons – firstly, it’s a superb expression that we really have missed, and secondly, and perhaps most importantly, this could be a sign that this is the beginning of the end of whisky shortage, at least as far as Nikka are concerned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrior to its discontinuation, the Yoichi 10 Year Old was a firm fan favourite among lovers of Japanese whisky the world over. It was the flagship age-statement bottle from Nikka’s first distillery, built by the great Masataka Taketsuru in 1939, and it was regularly enjoyed by thousands of people inside of Japan and overseas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow that it has returned, you must be wondering if it will be as good as it was before. Well, we’re happy to tell you the Yoichi 10 is returning in all of its glory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can expect plenty of fruits on the nose, with dried berries, gentle poached pears and sweet peach combining perfectly with hints of vanilla, nutmeg and building peat smoke. The palate arrives with more peat smoke that is followed by soft oak and more juicy fruits, before the finish lasts for a medium length with rich oak, peat and creamy vanilla.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s a truly expertly crafted expression that we can’t wait to get our hands on once again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Yoichi 10 is set to make its return to the distillery store in Hokkaido in late July, but will be available nationally from November onwards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt dekanta, we’d like to ensure everyone can get their hands on this fine release, and as such we’ll be offering worldwide shipping on a limited number of bottles from the beginning of December.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’d like to ensure you’re one of the first to get your hands on this returning legend of Japanese whisky, you can pre-order online today and we’ll deliver direct to your door upon release.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45699702554860,"sku":"N4006","price":319.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/0906\/7500\/files\/N4006.webp?v=1725742356"},{"product_id":"nikka-taketsuru-17-year-old-pure-malt","title":"Nikka Taketsuru 17 Pure Malt","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTaketsuru 17 Year Old is a refined expression that showcases the exceptional artistry of Nikka Whisky. Named after Masataka Taketsuru, the pioneering Japanese whisky maker, this single malt embodies his dedication to blending Scottish tradition with Japanese precision. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAged for 17 years in a combination of American oak, sherry, and Japanese Mizunara oak casks, it offers a harmonious balance of rich, complex flavors and a smooth, inviting character.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDistilled using Nikka’s signature Coffey stills, the spirit benefits from the unique process, which imparts greater depth and complexity to the whisky. The Coffey still, originally designed for grain whisky production, contributes a rich, full-bodied mouthfeel that complements the delicate flavors drawn from the casks. This distillation process, combined with the distillery’s careful maturation techniques, results in a whisky that is as multifaceted as it is elegant.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe whisky matures in the cool, temperate climate of the Miyagikyo Distillery, nestled in the mountains of Japan. The climate of the region—characterized by long, humid summers and cold winters—has a profound influence on the maturation process. The cooler temperatures slow the aging process, allowing the whisky to develop subtle, refined flavors over time, while the high humidity promotes the interaction between the spirit and the wood, resulting in a whisky with great depth and character.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eTasting notes \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOn the Nose\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eElegant and layered, with dried fruit, prune, and soft peat smoke. Notes of leather, nutmeg, and sherry-soaked oak.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOn the Palate\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRich and well-rounded, offering dark chocolate, dried berries, and a hint of espresso. Balanced by malt sweetness and gentle spice.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Finish\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSmooth and persistent, with lingering oak, cocoa, and a whisper of smoke.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Nikka Taketsuru\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNikka represents the perfect harmony of tradition and innovation in Japanese whisky. Founded by Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky, Nikka marries Scottish technique with a distinctly Japanese sensibility. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrom the bold, coastal character of Yoichi to the elegance of Miyagikyo, each expression reflects masterful craftsmanship, balance, and depth. With a legacy built on precision and passion, Nikka continues to define what modern Japanese whisky can be.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nikka","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45700570448108,"sku":"N0696","price":499.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/0906\/7500\/files\/Untitled_design_18.png?v=1744818557"},{"product_id":"hibiki-suntory-whisky-japanese-harmony","title":"Hibiki Suntory Whisky Japanese Harmony","description":"Hibiki Harmony is a meticulous blend of select finest whiskies. The legendary \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/dekanta.com\/product-category\/brands\/hibiki\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eHibiki Whisky\u003c\/a\u003e represents true harmony. The ideal of perfection, the paragon of 'The Art of Japanese Whisky' and its artisans. Hibiki means 'resonance' in Japanese. It speaks to the soul and emotions of the most discerning whisky lover and it resonates from nature and all the subtleties found from the twenty-four seasons of the old Japanese lunar calendar. Hibiki Harmony is numerous pure single malt whiskies, aged in a variety of cask types, including Mizunara, a very rare Japanese oak, all combine to create a full orchestra of flavors and aromas.","brand":"Suntory","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45700579983596,"sku":"N1181","price":179.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/0906\/7500\/files\/Hibiki-Suntory-Whisky-Japanese-Harmony.webp?v=1725785536"},{"product_id":"suntory-hakushu-12-year-old","title":"Hakushu 12 Year Old","description":"\u003cp\u003eHakushu 12 Year Old is one of the top selling bottles of whisky produced by Suntory. If you like the peated flavour of Scottish single malt whiskies, then Hakushu will blow you away!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hakushu line stands among other top selling Suntory products including favorites such as the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/dekanta.com\/product-category\/japanese-distilleries-open\/yamazaki\/\"\u003eYamazaki\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/dekanta.com\/product-category\/brands\/hibiki\/\"\u003eHibiki\u003c\/a\u003e. Hakushu distillery is located in an area surrounded by forests at the foot of the Southern Japan Alps. It's noted for producing the most heavily peated of Japanese whiskies. The flavour is most closely compared to Highlands Scotch, only with a closer attention to detail that only comes from the meticulous pursuit of perfection by Japanese distillers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hakushu 12 Year Old makes a great introduction to whisky produced by the distillery, with the lowest price among Hakushu releases. Higher end offerings include \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/dekanta.com\/store\/hakushu-18-years-old\/\"\u003eHakushu 18 Year Old\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/dekanta.com\/store\/hakushu-25-years-old\/\"\u003eHakushu 25 Year Old\u003c\/a\u003e. The Hakushu 12 Year Old Japanese Single Malt Whisky is made exclusively from malted barley, which is milled and mashed with water sourced from the Ojira River and Jingu Rivers (the water has a unique softness and purity, made possible by its filtration through the granite rocks of the Japanese Alps).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the grains have been mashed, they are fermented by a unique strain of yeast (Hakushu Distillery has thousands of unique strains in its arsenal) in wooden washbacks. Despite the additional cost and labor required, wooden washbacks as compared to stainless steel washbacks take advantage of the distillery's unique location by incorporating naturally occurring lactic acid bacteria and other microorganisms into the wash.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing fermentation, the wash is distilled twice through Hakushu's copper-pot stills before the whisky is laid to rest in the distillery's warehouses. Once the whisky has aged for a minimum of twelve years, it is brought to proof with pure Japanese spring water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a result of the whisky's slumber in Japan's deep forests, Hakushu 12 Year Old Japanese Single Malt Whisky has an herbal aroma, with hints of apples, pears and almonds. The palate has notes of pears, butter cookies and dark plums that are complemented by a subtle, smoky undertone. The finish is soft and pleasant, with a dry, lingering touch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHakushu 12 Year Old Awards\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough some might say it does not compare to its older siblings the 18 and 25 year old it is none the less smashing stuff, being named the best Japanese Single Malt 12 Years and younger for a reason!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest Japanese Single Malt Whisky 12 Years and Under\u003c\/strong\u003e (World Whiskies Awards, 2018)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGold Award \u003c\/strong\u003e(International Spirit Challenge, 2012)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGold Medal and \"Best In Class\"\u003c\/strong\u003e (International Wine and Spirits Competition)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDouble Gold Medal\u003c\/strong\u003e (San Fransisco World Spirits Competition, 2011, 2013, 2016)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Hakushu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45701100667116,"sku":"N0977","price":329.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/0906\/7500\/files\/N0977-1.webp?v=1725817035"},{"product_id":"ontake-sherry-cask-2025","title":"Ontake 2025 Sherry Cask","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMatured exclusively in rare first-fill ex-Solera Oloroso sherry casks, this Japanese single malt showcases the rich, fruit-forward house style that has become Ontake's signature. Produced using Ontake's in-house cultivated yeast, carefully selected two-row barley and pristine natural water sourced locally, it exemplifies the distillery's commitment to quality and character. Unlike many modern whiskies that rely on seasoned casks created specifically for whisky maturation, Ontake uses genuine Solera sherry casks that previously matured premium drinking sherry, adding remarkable depth and authenticity to the spirit.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEstablished by Nishi Shuzo, a producer with over 180 years of distilling history, Ontake is situated approximately 400 metres above sea level overlooking Kagoshima, Kinko Bay and the Sakurajima Volcano, benefitting from a climate well suited to whisky maturation. Combining warm southern temperatures with cool mountain air. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe quality of Ontake 2025 has already been recognised on the international stage, earning Gold Medals at the World Whisky Masters 2025, the Asia World Spirits Competition 2025 and the Tokyo Whisky \u0026amp; Spirits Competition 2026. These accolades further establish Ontake as one of Japan's most exciting emerging whisky producers and reinforce the growing reputation of the distillery's signature sherry-matured style. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReleased in limited quantities, Ontake 2025 Sherry Cask offers an opportunity to experience the distillery's signature sherry-matured style at its most mature expression to date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ontake Distillery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47920008233196,"sku":"N4497","price":319.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/0906\/7500\/files\/Group_1436.png?v=1783614709"}],"url":"https:\/\/dekanta.com\/collections\/the-best-value-japanese-whisky.oembed","provider":"dekantā","version":"1.0","type":"link"}