Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, Yoichi-cho, Japan
Nikka Whisky, one of Japan’s top whisky makers, has its main distillery in Yoichi, the neighboring town of Otaru. The company was founded by Taketsuru Masataka, known as the father of Japanese whisky, who studied whisky making techniques for several years in Scotland before bringing the trade to Japan. He was instrumental in establishing the country’s first whisky distillery, the Yamazaki Distillery near Kyoto, before he set out on his own to start Nikka Whisky here in Hokkaido.
The Yoichi Distillery was built in 1934, on a site chosen for its clear water, brisk air and rich peat. Taketsuru believed that the conditions in Yoichi best resembled those found in Scotland and would be perfect for recreating Scotch whisky. The traditional distillation process that he brought over is largely unchanged today. Nikka whiskies have been recognized to rank among the world’s best single malt whiskies and have won numerous awards.
Epic Japan Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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