Nikka Pure Malt Black - 50cl
The middle expression in Nikka's celebrated Pure Malt trilogy — and for many enthusiasts, the most satisfying of the three. Where the Pure Malt Red leans into pure fruity elegance and the Pure Malt White pushes towards full peaty expression, the Black occupies the ideal middle ground: a carefully crafted marriage of Miyagikyo's floral, fruity delicacy and Yoichi's bold, smoky coastal character, delivering both sides of Nikka's distillery personality in a single, beautifully integrated bottle. Awarded 95 points by Jim Murray's Whisky Bible and a consistent favourite among enthusiasts who prize the balance of fruit and refined smoke that only Nikka's two contrasting distilleries together can achieve. Bottled at 43% ABV — approachable, versatile, and quietly exceptional.
TASTING NOTES
NOSE
Fresh and clean — initially not too smoky, with sweet malt, orchard fruit, citrus peel, apricot, and vanilla extract opening up, before richer notes of peat, light oak, and a subtle coastal character emerge as it breathes.
PALATE
Medium-bodied and pleasingly chewy — sweet toffee, orchard fruit, and hints of smoke with brine, dark chocolate, coffee, orange peel, and a light earthiness that reflects Yoichi's coastal character in quiet, elegant harmony with Miyagikyo's fruity softness.
FINISH
Medium in length with earthy peat, caramel, white pepper, and a light fruitiness — clean, mellow, and gently satisfying throughout.
ABV: 43% ABV