Nikka Yoichi Discovery Aromatic Yeast 2022 Whisky

Nikka Yoichi Discovery Aromatic Yeast 2022 is a limited-edition single malt from Nikka's Yoichi Distillery in Hokkaido, released in 2022 as part of the Discovery Series. This expression explores the influence of yeast on whisky character, using a strain from the distillery's own culture collection to create a more aromatic, estery style reminiscent of ginjo sake.

The nose is refined, with herbaceous, salty peat at first, before fruit, flowers and mint emerge with time. The palate is firm and robust, evoking barley fields swept with sea spray, an earthy peaty core and a floral, fruity turn. The finish is long, opening with bunches of white grapes before moving to plum and ending smooth. Bottled at 48% ABV, it balances Yoichi's signature coastal peat with a vibrant fruity character.