This is a 10 year old single malt from the Yoichi distillery, Nikka's first distillery built in 1934. The founder Masataka Taketsuru chose Yoichi in Hokkaido because of the similar environmental conditions to Scotland, where he learned whisky making. Yoichi single malt has pleasant peaty notes and smokiness originating from the traditional direct coal-fired distillation as well as a briny hint delivered by the sea breeze during the aging process.   Nose: Ripe fruit and floral tones with a rich hint of cinnamon and spice. Palate: Earthy yet sweet beneath. Notes of vanilla and orange with developing spicy touches. Finish: Pleasant peaty notes, deep smoke in the aftertaste.