Nikka Whisky debuted the 2022 releases from its Nikka Discovery series in the U.S.: Single Malt Yoichi Aromatic Yeast and Single Malt Miyagikyo Aromatic Yeast.

This duo is the second release to come from the Nikka Discovery series, each year highlighting a different component of the whisky-making process that Nikka has practiced since 1934 and offering an inside look at the various experiments within Nikka’s two distilleries in Japan, Yoichi and Miyagikyo. 2023 will reveal the third and final release in the series in anticipation of Nikka Whisky’s 90th Anniversary in 2024. 

This year, the Nikka Discovery series focuses on the variety of yeast within Nikka’s two distilleries and the unique aromas that are generated through fermentation. This pair of limited bottlings uses rare, experimental batches from Nikka’s vast “culture collection.”

Single Malt Yoichi Aromatic Yeast (48% ABV) is reminiscent of ginjyo sake, expressing floral and fruity notes that have only improved after several years of maturation. Similarly, Single Malt Miyagikyo Aromatic Yeast (47% ABV) offers the fruity aroma of stone fruit such as peach and apricot, which enhances Miyagikyo’s traditional elegant and fruity style.    

The Single Malt Yoichi Aromatic Yeast and Single Malt Miyagikyo Aromatic Yeast releases are non-chill filtered and each bottled at different ABVs to best enhance their unique characteristics. Each retailing at an SRP of $274.99, only 2,640 bottles of both expressions will be available in the U.S. at select retailers as well as online at ReserveBar.com.

Founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru, Nikka Whisky Distilling Co. is a world-renowned artisanal spirit brand with more than 85 years of blending behind it.  For more information, visit https://www.nikka.com/eng/ or follow the brand on social media @nikkawhiskyusa.