Nikka from The Barrel Extra Marriage 40th Anniversary Limited Edition Set (500ml x 3 bottles)

Japanese whisky brand Nikka is launching two special limited editions to commemorate the 40th anniversary of its iconic square-bottled blended whisky, Nikka From The Barrel. Since its debut in 1985, Nikka From The Barrel has set itself apart with its unique small square bottle and innovative direct-from-the-cask bottling method, breaking industry norms. Under the guidance of Chief Blender Shigeo Sato, it has established a reputation for its perfect balance of power and precision.

To mark this significant milestone, Nikka is releasing a limited edition called "Extra Marriage" and a three-bottle gift set. The Extra Marriage version extends the aging period of the original formula to twice the standard, allowing the blend of over a hundred whiskies to develop deeper and more complex flavors. This blended whisky combines malt whiskies from Nikka's Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries with grain whisky produced using a Coffey still imported from Scotland in 1963. The malt whisky from Yoichi distillery contributes a strong peaty and maritime character, while Miyagikyo distillery adds fruity aromas and smoothness. The grain whisky provides structure and roundness to the final product. Official tasting notes describe its aroma as beeswax, iris cream, roasted pineapple, and nutmeg; its palate as medicinal, smoky, and with notes of lemon peel; and its finish as energetic and silky, with hints of maltose and candied ginger.

The other commemorative edition comes in the form of a gift set, allowing whisky enthusiasts to gain a deeper understanding of Nikka From The Barrel's blending artistry. This limited gift set includes the Extra Marriage version and two separate component bottling s. Malt Pieces of the Barrel and Grain Pieces of the Barrel. The Malt Pieces of the Barrel version highlights the malt elements in the blended whisky, exhibiting distinct peaty and smoky characteristics. Official tasting notes describe it as having rich malt, herbal, fruity, and medicinal flavors from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries. The Grain Pieces of the Barrel version emphasizes the contribution of grain whisky, showcasing vanilla, fruit, herbal, and floral notes, and demonstrating how grain whisky brings roundness and consistency to the final blend. Nikka states that by combining these three unique flavors, the gift set offers a rare opportunity for consumers to experience the characteristics of each component of Nikka From The Barrel individually, and then appreciate how they harmoniously integrate in the Extra Marriage version.

Both anniversary editions are produced in limited quantities, paying tribute to the "power, balance, and respect for time" that this flagship blended whisky from Nikka upholds.