I’ve always had a fondness for Japanese whisky, which if I were to rewind, started at first with the Yamazaki.  Both the Distillers’ Reserve and the Y12 integrates very deeply with their culture – be it the subtle floral notes reminding me of pink cherry blossoms, the incense like nuances that best represent their love for harmony and discipline; or the use of Mizunara oak, their very own indigenous wood, adding layers to the maturing whisky.

The Japanese also have a flair for pushing boundaries, a good example being the subject of this review, the Nikka Coffey Malt. The technique itself, Coffey distillation, was (and is) traditionally used for distilling grain whiskies. Quite unorthodox for distilling malt whiskies, so much so that the spirit itself can’t be classified as a Japanese Single Malt anymore due to the absence of Pot Stills in the distillation process.

The Coffey Malt was introduced in 2013, a year after the Coffey Grain release. Made completely of 100% malted barley, it’s matured in a variety of ex-bourbon American oak barrels – refilled and  re-charred. Taking  experiences from the Coffey Grain’s success, the distillation’s influence on malt might have invoked a sense of curiosity with the distillers, an experiment that is both innovative and almost provocative.

Abv : 45%

Eye : Amber | Artifical Caramel Colouring (e150a)

Nose : Caramel with hints of banana and char; infused with the sweetness of creme brulee and orange zest. Floral notes and milk chocolate, white pepper, cinnamon with a buttery finish.

Taste : Vanilla and orange peels with a bit of earthiness, and smoke interleaved with cinnamon rolls. Peaches and possibly some raisins, with a bit of spice hovering in the background.

Finish : Medium to long | Orange zest and cinnamon sticks with a drizzle of vanilla.

The Coffey Malt is such a pleasurable dram, with a host of flavours tossed into the mix; a velvety profile, a colourful fusion and a delightful mouth feel that lends it bonus points. There’s complexity with fruit, floral and buttery influences leading charge, followed by a pinch of smoke and a sprinkle of spice. The nose is equally enjoyable and so is the finish. Almost like an orchestra, with everything aligning quite harmoniously, well timed, blended and so involving.

For around AUD $100, it represents true value for money; a heavy hitter, a samurai with the works, holding much more than most whiskies at a similar price point. This one is best savoured after a good day’s work or even one with the mates – spread the love! For me it’s a thumbs up, just like it’s predecessor! Excuse me while I make a dash for my cabinet – going oriental once again!

またね (matane)!

Slainte!