Taketsuru is a blended whisky from Nikka, named in honour of their founder Masataka Taketsuru. The component whiskies for the Taketsuru 21yo come from Yoichi and Miyagikyo, Nikka’s two malt distilleries. The 21yo has won many awards, including the coveted ‘Worlds Best Blended Malt Whisky’ at the World Whiskies Awards.. And not once mind you, three times in four years.
Taketsuru 21yo (OB, 43%)
Nose: Bit dusty at first. Then sandalwood and some light glue. Plenty of vanilla follows, with also ripe tropical fruit, cinnamon and apples. A bit waxy. Balanced and refreshing.
Taste: Slightly sour and bitter, lots of oak influence. Coffee and cinnamon. Pretty dry, so lots of tannins. Also more spices with pepper and cloves.
Finish: Black tea, milk chocolate, tannins and some tobacco. Long.
Rating: 87
It’s a whisky with two faces for me. A nose in which the sweeter sides dominates, and a palate that is spicier. Highly enjoyable, and used to affordable. But now only available at auction, and for ridiculous prices.
I love this one more than you, it appears. But as you say, not at current prices.