There are many different kinds of whisky available on the market today, so it can be difficult to know where to start your search if you’re looking to buy some whisky. Whether you’re an aficionado or simply just getting into the spirit, we have you covered with these tips for choosing the right bottle of nikka whisky for you and your tastes.
1. What’s the Age of the Whisky?
The age of a bottle of whisky is probably the most important factor to keep in mind when deciding which brand or variety to purchase. Generally speaking, the longer aged whisky is, the more refined it will taste and the more expensive it will be. Because whisky gets better with age, you want to look for a bottle that’s been aged for at least 10 years if you’re looking for a smoother taste. However, some people prefer smoother-tasting whiskies that are less expensive rather than super-smooth but pricier ones. In this case, you may want to go with a variety that has been aged from three years to eight years or so.
2. Single Malt vs. Blended Whisky
The next important factor to consider is whether you want to go with a single malt or a blended variety. Single malts are made from just one type of grain, usually barley, and have just been distilled at one distillery location. Blended whiskies, on the other hand, are made from a mixture of different types of whisky and are often more affordable than their single malt counterparts.
3. What’s the Price Range?
Just as there are different kinds of whisky you can purchase, there is also a wide range in price. For example, blended whiskies can be much cheaper than their single malt counterparts. However, if you want to take your whisky-drinking experience to the next level, we recommend purchasing a single malt (or blended bottle) that has been aged for at least 10 years. The price difference between a 10-year-old and 12-year-old bottle of single malt whisky is minimal, but the cost disparity with one of the older varieties is significantly higher. Keep in mind that the price discrepancy between the most expensive and inexpensive single malts could be well over $100.
4. What Taste Are You Looking For?
As long as you take into consideration all of the factors mentioned above, you’ll be able to find something that suits your taste and budget. Here are some typical examples of popular whisky types and bottles to help inspire your next purchase:
Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky: Coffey is a Japanese word for grain, so this expression is created from a mixture of malt whisky aged in bourbon barrels with the addition of coffee beans from the Finca Pueblo Nuevo coffee plantation (in Nicaragua).
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt Red: The Taketsuru distillery is named after Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Nikka Whisky. This bottle is a blend of grain and malt whiskies that have been matured in either American oak casks or American and Spanish oak sherry casks.
Nikka Black Gold: This offering has a more round taste than the Coffey variety. It’s also made from malts aged in bourbon barrels, with the addition of coffee beans.
Nikka Whisky From the Barrel: Another popular offering from the Nikka brand, this whisky is created from 100% malted barley that has been matured in either new or used oak barrels.
No matter where you are in your whisky-drinking journey, there is a variety of whisky available today that’s perfect for your tastes and budget.