Nikka Gold & Gold Sapporo Olympics 1972

Forged in the year of the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympic Games, this Gold & Gold Nikka release is a rare piece of Japanese whisky history. This exceptionally well-aged malt, guaranteed matured in wood, delivers a harmonious blend of dried fruits, delicate spices, and polished oak, culminating in a sophisticated and enduring finish fit for a momentous occasion.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and delicate bouquet of dried apricots, baked apples, and plum, intertwined with subtle notes of polished oak, old leather, and a hint of pipe tobacco. There's an underlying sweetness of honey and a faint wisp of delicate floral perfume, possibly jasmine or elderflower, indicative of well-aged malt. A touch of nutty complexity, perhaps almond or hazelnut, emerges after some air.

Palate: The entry is remarkably smooth and coating, showcasing a refined sweetness that balances candied orange peel and golden syrup. Mid-palate, a wave of dark fruit flavors, like stewed cherries and figs, develops alongside a gentle spice character – cinnamon, nutmeg, and a whisper of ginger. The malt backbone is evident, offering a biscuity and almost creamy texture. Despite being NAS, the 'Guaranteed Matured In Wood' is clearly expressed through integrated oak tannins, providing structure without bitterness. A faint mineral note adds to its complexity.

Finish: Long, warming, and exceedingly elegant. The fruit and spice notes linger, slowly fading into a persistent sweetness with echoes of dark chocolate and roasted coffee beans. A delicate oak character remains, dry yet polished, alongside a final, ethereal hint of smoke or toasted grain. The finish is remarkably clean, leaving a pleasant warmth and a desire for another sip.

About the Distillery

The Nikka Whisky Distilling Co., Ltd. was founded by Masataka Taketsuru, often referred to as the 'Father of Japanese Whisky.' After studying whisky production in Scotland, Taketsuru returned to Japan with the ambition to create authentic Scotch-style whisky. Established in 1934, Nikka has become one of Japan's most revered whisky producers, known for its meticulous craftsmanship and diverse range of expressions, consistently earning international accolades.