Nikka Whisky: Legacy, Rarity, and the Art of Dual Distillation
Among the founding houses of Japanese whisky, few carry as much heritage—or intrigue—as Nikka Distillery. Established by Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky, Nikka helped define the spirit category as we know it today. With its bold yet balanced approach, Nikka’s whiskies are revered for their depth, complexity, and masterful blending. At Sushi ii, we are proud to offer two extraordinary expressions that showcase Nikka’s innovation and tradition: the Nikka 10-Year Single Malt and the limited-edition Nikka The Grain 96.
The Origins of Nikka: A Story of Dedication and Duality
Masataka Taketsuru studied the art of whisky-making in Scotland before bringing his knowledge—and passion—back to Japan in the early 20th century. After co-founding Japan’s first whisky distillery, he later established Nikka in 1934, choosing Yoichi, a rugged coastal town in Hokkaido, for its similarity to the Scottish Highlands.
Over time, Nikka expanded to include the Miyagikyo Distillery in Sendai, nestled in a lush, mountainous region. The result is a fascinating duality: whiskies from Yoichi tend to be rich and peated, while those from Miyagikyo are more delicate and floral. This contrast forms the backbone of Nikka’s portfolio, making it one of Japan’s most dynamic and respected distilleries.
Nikka 10-Year Single Malt (By Allocation)
The return of the Nikka 10-Year Single Malt marks a celebrated moment for Japanese whisky enthusiasts. After a years-long hiatus due to aging stock shortages, this expression is now available only through limited allocation—making it a rare and sought-after pour.
Aged for a decade, this single malt showcases a harmonious balance of stone fruit and toasted malt, with subtle hints of vanilla, smoke, and spice. Its complexity and poise make it an ideal pairing for dishes that highlight aged soy, rich umami, or charred textures. Served neat or with a single cube of Kuramoto ice, it’s a contemplative sip worthy of its pedigree.
Nikka The Grain 96 (Limited Edition)
A modern experiment from one of Japan’s most traditional houses, Nikka The Grain 96 is a limited-edition release crafted from carefully selected grain whiskies. It’s a bold and innovative statement from a distillery known for its blending mastery.
This expression is light and smooth, with bright notes of banana, coconut, vanilla, and citrus peel, layered with soft undertones of toffee and white chocolate. Its mellow structure and sweet finish make it a standout pairing for sushi courses like hamachi or uni, where it complements the richness of the fish without overpowering it.
A Rare Offering at Sushi ii
With both the Nikka 10-Year Single Malt and The Grain 96, Sushi ii offers its guests a rare glimpse into the diversity and evolution of Japanese whisky. These bottles are not commonly found on shelves—they are reserved for those who appreciate the nuances of craft, age, and origin. As with all aspects of Sushi ii’s beverage program, the goal is to elevate the dining experience with thoughtful, expressive pours that honor tradition while embracing innovation.
Nikka’s story is one of legacy, precision, and enduring influence. From its founder’s early days in Scotland to its current status as one of Japan’s most admired distilleries, Nikka continues to shape the world of whisky with artistry and intention. At Sushi ii, we are honored to pour two of Nikka’s most exceptional releases—expressions that embody the very essence of Japanese whisky excellence.