This is the fascinating story of how Nikka Whisky came to be
In 1918, a young Japanese man embarked alone on a journey to Scotland with the ambition of creating authentic whisky. His name was Masataka Taketsuru, the visionary founder of Nikka Whisky.
Given the opportunity to travel to Scotland, Masataka became the first Japanese person ever to master the art of whisky production. He enrolled at the University of Glasgow, studied chemistry, and apprenticed at three Scotch distilleries. Through dedication and passion, Masataka had the privilege to learn directly from skilled craftsmen and undergo practical training to excel in blending. The meticulous notes he kept in two notebooks became Japan’s first comprehensive guide to whisky production.
In 1920, Masataka returned to Japan accompanied by his Scottish wife, Jessie Roberta (Rita). Despite their earlier hopes, they were devastated to discover that Settsu Shuzo, the company that had sponsored Masataka’s education in Scotland, had abandoned its plans to produce genuine whisky in Japan due to post-World War I economic challenges.
Meanwhile, Kotobukiya Limited (now Suntory) was searching for someone with expertise in whisky production. As the only Japanese individual skilled in this field, Masataka was recruited by Kotobukiya in 1923 to oversee the construction of the Yamazaki Distillery. There, he spearheaded the project and dedicated himself to crafting Japan’s inaugural authentic whisky.
Following the conclusion of his ten-year contract with Kotobukiya, Masataka Taketsuru made the decision to venture out on his own to create his ideal whisky. In 1934, he headed north and established his inaugural distillery in Yoichi, Hokkaido. Despite its remote location, Yoichi held a special place in Masataka’s heart as he believed it to be the perfect setting for crafting whisky. The environmental conditions of Yoichi closely resembled those of Scotland, boasting a cool climate, crisp air, and suitable humidity.
Initially, the company focused on producing apple products under the name “Dai Nippon Kaju” (Great Japanese Juice Company) while Masataka prepared to delve into whisky production. In 1936, the first pot still, designed by Masataka himself and manufactured in Japan, was installed and commenced distillation. Finally, in 1940, Nikka launched its first whisky. The brand name chosen for this whisky was “NIKKA WHISKY,” derived from “Nippon Kaju,” which later evolved into the company’s name itself.
Nikka Whisky Brands
Nikka Taketsuru
Named after Nikka’s founder, Masataka Taketsuru, this whisky pays homage to his pioneering work in the Japanese whisky industry. It encompasses both pure malt and blended malt whiskies.
Nikka Yoichi
Located in Yoichi, Hokkaido, this distillery is renowned for its traditional production methods and smoky, robust whiskies.
Nikka Miyagikyo
Situated in Miyagi Prefecture, this distillery produces whisky with an elegant and fruity character, thanks to the distillation methods and local ingredients used.
Nikka Pure Malt
A range of blended malt whiskies that reflect Nikka’s expertise in blending different malt whiskies. They offer a harmonious combination of flavors from various distilleries.
Nikka Coffey Grain
Whisky distilled in Coffey stills, which impart a unique character and rich texture to the Nikka portfolio. It is known for its sweet and vanilla-like notes.
Nikka Coffey Malt
A variant of the Coffey series, this whisky is produced using only malted barley in Coffey stills, resulting in a rich and smooth flavor with hints of fruit and spices.
Nikka Super Nikka
A blended whisky that represents the legacy of Masataka Taketsuru and his pursuit of perfection. It is known for its smooth and balanced flavor profile.
Nikka From the Barrel
A signature blended whisky from Nikka, known for its powerful and complex flavors, with notes of spices, fruit, and oak.
Nikka Black
A tribute to the black whiskies produced in the early years of Japanese whisky production. It is known for its deep and smoky character, with a rich texture and complex flavor profile.
Each of these brands represents a unique style and tradition within the Nikka Whisky family, reflecting the diversity and quality of Japanese whisky.
Do you find the history of Nikka Distillery interesting? Are you a fan of Nikka whisky? Let us know which one is your favorite. Check out the history of the Jura Distillery here 👉 Jura Distillery
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