Nikka Whisky From the Barrel

Nikka From The Barrel is a blended whisky which was actually first released in 1985 though only domestically. The development of this expression started with the goal of delivering full flavors and richness of whisky like “from the barrel”, which only blenders can sniff and taste.

Needless to say, the formula that this small distillery has perfecting for the last few decades is sensationally good. Of course most of you probably know it as a result of it being named Whisky Advocate’s #1 Whisky in their 2018 Top 20 countdown which helped propel it into international fame.

Now it has become almost a cult-like whiskey item and one that most stores can’t quite seem to get in stock. Desite the name, it is not barrel proof – rather a 102.8 Proof, blended whisky created from special barrels that bring out this aromatic fireworks. It has spicy notes that match with the oak, some honey and sweet fruited notes as well but just a really powerful, smooth expression that lingers for a good minute even after your last sip. It’s dang good and I was lucky to secure 18 bottles for the Bourbon Buyer’s Club text list ONLY.

“For Nikka From the Barrel, it’s been a long road to Whisky of the Year. This Japanese blend made its U.S. debut in 2018, but its inception dates back more than 30 years. In 1985, Nikka Whisky Distilling Company’s blending team, led by Shigeo Sato, designed this whisky using both malt and grain whiskies produced at Nikka’s Yoichi and Miyagikyo Distilleries. When taking into account the full array of casks—bourbon barrels, sherry butts, refill hogsheads, and more—over 100 different constituent whiskies are enlisted.

“From the Barrel” suggests barrel proof, but that’s not the case. The blenders made a conscious decision to bottle at 51.4% (derived from 90 British Proof) to deliver maximum flavor impact. They succeeded.

Notably balanced and elegant, the colorful palette of whiskies combines for tremendous depth of flavor. Soft, sweet butterscotch and orange peel meet poached pears and stone fruits. Earthiness appears as dried autumn leaves, coffee, old oak, and tobacco. Among the tangle of spices, tasters identified chili pepper, allspice, cloves, and universally adored its ginger note. Finally, wisps of smoke and sea salt. Overall, it feels generously malty, with the grain whisky lending broad sweetness and supple mouthfeel across the long finish.

Beyond its delightful flavors, Nikka From the Barrel presents some paradoxes worthy of contemplation over a glass. It is a classic, yet new to the U.S. It is typically Japanese, yet singularly magnificent. It is delightful sipped neat and also blossoms with water. Even the simple, squat bottle is in contrast to the profound complexity within. 

The great majority of new Japanese whiskies now arriving to our shores are so rare and so expensive that they seem intended only for elite whisky lovers. Nikka From the Barrel is a consummate Japanese blend for anyone to enjoy.” -Jeffery Lindenmuth, Whisky Advocate