Elected Best Blended Malt in the World at the World Whiskies Awards in 2012, 2014, and 2018, this 17-year-old expression pays tribute to Masataka Taketsuru, a pioneer of Japanese whisky and founder of Nikka. This blend brings together single malts from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries, aged in sherry casks. Nose: Spicy and delicate, with fruity notes (yellow mirabelle plum, peach skin) and chocolatey undertones. It evolves into aromas of old leather, dried tobacco leaf, and dried fruits (apricot, fig). Taste: Rich and generous, it offers flavors of candied fruits (orange peel), eau-de-vie-soaked fruits (Morello cherry), with a creamy texture. Creamy, it develops notes of toffee, mocha, and roasted nuts (hazelnuts). Finish: Long, reminiscent of old Speyside whiskies, marked by flavors of praline, burnt wood, and cigar smoke. Anise flower and citrus bring a touch of freshness, accompanied by subtle herbal notes (dry herbs).