94

Score

Nikka from the Barrel Malt Pieces of the Barrel 40th Anniversary Limited Edition, 58%,

Price: 400 ● Issue: Fall 2026 ● Reviewer: Jonny McCormick ● Category: Blended Japanese Whisky

A fascinating sub-blend of Nikka from the Barrel bottled at the blender’s preferred strength using non-peated, lightly peated, and heavily peated stock from Nikka’s three malt distilleries with a core of Miyagikyo. Roasted nut, malt, honey, and toasted granola aromas, with a peated base, ashy smoke, baked lemon, golden raisin, and creamy vanilla. Maple syrup, vanilla extract, and nutty flavors are balanced by clove, cigar smoke, apple cake, cinnamon, and nutmeg. (800 sets of three 500ml bottles, including Nikka from the Barrel Extra Marriage, released last year, and Grain Pieces). $400/3 500ml bottle set