SMWS (Yoichi) 116.10 1987 18 Year Old

The label on the bottle of SMWS (Yoichi) 116.10 1987 18 Year Old immediately catches your eye with its signature blue color. The Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the product of the Yoichi distillery, founded in 1934 by the father of Japanese whisky, Masataka Taketsuru. This whisky, aged for 18 years, is matured in ex-bourbon casks, which provide a subtle vanilla sweetness on the nose.

Upon tasting, the whisky reveals a complex and layered flavor palate. The palate is full-bodied, with notes of vanilla, honey, and oak that complement the initial nose. The whisky then takes a spicy turn with hints of cinnamon and black pepper that balance the sweetness. The smooth finish is long-lasting, with a slight bitterness that lingers on the tongue.

The Yoichi Distillery is located on the northern island of Hokkaido, where it takes advantage of the cool and humid climate to create a distinct flavor profile. The 1987 vintage has become a sought-after release, due to its rarity and unique tasting notes. The distillery uses traditional distillation methods to produce a whisky that is smoky, rich, and complex.

The Society of the Independent Bottlers (SMWS) is a group that specializes in single cask, markedly unique releases that showcase the individuality of each distillery. Each bottle is numbered and hand-labeled to ensure authenticity and traceability. Every release is a nod to the individual distillery’s unique character, with Yoichi’s 116.10 1987 18 Year Old being no exception.

This whisky is perfect for sipping on its own, as the complexity and depth ensure that each sip is a journey in flavor. It also pairs well with a variety of foods, but particularly well with rich, chocolate desserts and dried fruits. As a rare and sought-after vintage, it is a valuable addition to any collection and a must-try whisky for anyone looking to explore the world of Japanese whisky.