YOICHI AND MIYAGIKYO SINGLE MALTS

“To craft authentic whisky in Japan.”
With that vision in mind, Masataka Taketsuru set out to learn from the birthplace of whisky, and ultimately discovered Yoichi in Hokkaido where a cool, maritime climate echoes that of Scotland.
After years of relentless pursuit, Hokkaido Yoichi Distillery was founded in 1934, marking the beginning of Nikka Whisky.

At Hokkaido Yoichi Distillery, coal is fed directly into pot stills exceeding 1,000°C, imparting a distinctive depth and subtle smokiness to the whisky.
The use of straight-headed pot stills allows a greater concentration of flavour compounds to remain in the distillate, creating a rich and complex profile.
Requiring the skill of craftsmen, this method has become increasingly rare worldwide − yet it continues to be preserved at Yoichi to this day.

Named after the distillery itself, Yoichi Single Malt.
A bold peatiness with a firm smokiness.
Depth and richness shaped by coal-fired distillation.
The unwavering conviction of Masataka Taketsuru, the wild coastal breeze,
and enduring craft − together, they come together in a singular expression.

Chosen to nurture a contrasting character to Yoichi, this tranquil valley in the “City of Trees,” Sendai, was selected as an ideal site.
After tasting whisky diluted with water drawn from the Nikkawa River, Masataka Taketsuru resolved to build a distillery here.
That vision and passion have been carried forward, giving rise in 1969 to the Sendai Miyagikyo Distillery − a new chapter for Nikka Whisky.

Using steam maintained at around 130°C, the spirit is distilled slowly, giving it a smooth and gentle profile.
With an ascending lyne arm and the rounded form of bulge pot stills, vapour and flavour compounds circulate within, gradually refining aroma and taste.

Named after the distillery itself, Miyagikyo Single Malt.
Floral aromas unique to indirect steam distillation, and a soft, fruity sweetness that unfolds on the palate.
The unyielding passion of Masataka Taketsuru, the crisp air of the valley, and a finely honed distillation-together, they form a singular expression.