Yoichi 10 year old Japanese single malt whisky distilled and matured at Nikka Yoichi Distillery, Hokkaido, Japan. An excellent introduction into the world Japanese whiskies. Yoichi (Japan) Yoichi Distillery is situated close to the Sea of Japan in the town of Yoich and on the Shakotan Peninsular which is on the west side of Hokkaido Island. Yoichi Distillery is the most northerly distillery in Japan and also the second oldest distillery in Japan having been founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru who had studied whisky production in Scotland. Distilling commenced in 1936, blended whisky was released in 1940 and then Yoichi single malt whisky in 1984. Yoichi is equipped with six stills which are heated directly by a coal fire. Worm tubs are used to cool the spirit and the distillery has its own cooperage. A small number of Japanese Oak casks are filled for maturation. Yoichi Distillery visitor centre welcomes visitors and offers distillery tours. This single malt whisky from the Yoichi distillery, stored and matured for 10 years or more, is characterized by a festive nose reminiscent of fruit and a smooth, velvety palate
