Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky

2025-05-07 Japanese whisky has long since established itself as a serious competitor to Scottish and American bottlings. Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky takes a slightly different approach: 100% barley, but distilled in a coffey still - a traditional column still that is usually used for grain whisky.
Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky
Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky
Blended Malt | No Age Statement | 45,00 % ABV. | 89,00 €/l | Nikka Distillery | made in Japan | Whiskybase ID 238618

Nose

The nose is immediately greeted by a sweet vanilla note, as if you were biting into a freshly baked slice of bee sting cake. Caramel and a light spiciness are added, followed by a surprising fruitiness: ripe banana, floral notes and a hint of exotic funk.

Taste

The first sip confirms the impression from the nose: malty and nutty, with clear roasted flavours reminiscent of hazelnuts. A creamy texture provides a pleasant mouthfeel, while light hay and honey notes add a subtle sweetness. The whole remains accessible and round without becoming too complicated - a whisky that doesn't show off.

Finish

Here, the Nikka Coffey Malt shows a more reserved side. The flavours fade quickly, but leave behind a pleasant spiciness as well as light fruit notes and vanilla. A little crispy perhaps, but overall a clean, albeit short finish.

Thoughts

You can drink it - and with pleasure! The Nikka Coffey Malt is a whisky with a solid flavour and exciting exotic nuances. However, it is somewhat generic, which is not necessarily a bad thing, but it does not taste like a unique experience either. If you are looking for a smooth, sweet and accessible alternative to classic malts, this is the one for you. Whether it is worth the asking price remains a matter of taste.

Rating: 75/100 - Very Good (Marcel: 75 | Sascha: 74)

Value for Money: 3/5 - Ok

Preview Image Source: The Whisky Exchange
 
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