This year marks a significant milestone for Nikka as the iconic Japanese whisky brand celebrates its 90th anniversary. To honour this occasion, Nikka is launching a special campaign titled 90 Days of Nikka, partnering with bars and retailers across the UK. Continuing throughout the autumn, whisky enthusiasts and newcomers alike will be treated to a series of exclusive events, specially curated menus, and exciting collaborations.
The Story Behind It All
Nikka’s legacy began in 1934, founded by Masataka Taketsuru, a visionary who dedicated his life to mastering the art of whisky. After travelling to Scotland in 1918 to study traditional Scotch whisky-making, Taketsuru returned to Japan with a wealth of knowledge and his Scottish wife, Rita. His pioneering spirit led him to blend the age-old techniques of Scotch whisky production with the precision and craftsmanship of Japan. Taketsuru’s success earned him the title “The Father of Japanese Whisky,” his creations have since garnered international acclaim for their exceptional quality.
Celebrating 90 Years of Nikka Whisky
To mark this 90th anniversary, Nikka will host a variety of immersive experiences designed to showcase its range of premium whiskies. From a ‘How to Highball’ masterclass, teaching the perfect technique for this refreshing whisky serve, to food pairing events where the Nikka whisky range is expertly matched with sushi and other Japanese delicacies, there will be something for everyone. Nikka will also participate in the highly anticipated London Cocktail Week from the 3rd to the 13th of October, showcasing the brand’s innovative approach to whisky in a lively setting.
The Nikka Nine Decades IX.
Alongside an array of exciting events, Nikka is commemorating its 90th anniversary with a special release: THE NIKKA NINE DECADES IX. This limited-edition world-blended whisky features an extraordinary collection of whiskies from the 1940s to the 2020s, sourced from renowned distilleries like Yoichi, Nishinomiya, Miyagikyo, Moji, and Satsumatsukasa. More than 50 batches, including the oldest malt whisky reserves from Yoichi and Miyagikyo, were carefully selected to honour both Nikka’s heritage and its forward-looking vision. Priced at £2,500, THE NIKKA NINE DECADES IX will be available for purchase only across select channels.
The limited edition launch opens with aromas of rich apple pie and raisin sweetness, followed by hints of gentle smoke and toasted wood. The palate offers mellow oak layered with spicy cinnamon, roasted nuts, and dark chocolate, balanced by sweet apricot jam and maple syrup. The finish is long and smooth, with a delicate peat bitterness complemented by sweet and sour notes.
90 Days of Nikka Events
Nikka’s 90 Days of Nikka celebration promises some fabulous experience for whisky lovers, with events hosted by some of the UK’s most prestigious venues. Kioku Bar, as part of a three-month collaboration, will host cocktail listings, bar takeovers with The Milk Thistle (Bristol) and Shinji (NYC), and unique events pairing tea, sake, and whisky, led by expert sommelier Anthony Yukio and whisky ambassador Mikey Pendergast.
Aqua Kyoto’s creative Bar Manager Camilo Jimenez has designed a range of exclusive cocktails, including the Masataka Sour, which will be available throughout the 90 Days of Nikka and London Cocktail Week. 8 at The Londoner will feature a special Nikka menu, including unique twists on classic cocktails like the Gimlet and Old-Fashioned, celebrating the intricate flavours of Nikka Coffey Gin, Vodka, and Nikka Days. Kwant will offer a three-month Omakase menu paired with Nikka whisk while OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar & Brasserie will craft two exclusive cocktails, Kumori and Kiiro, and offer a whisky flight during London Cocktail Week, while Harvey Nichols locations in Knightsbridge, Manchester, Leeds, and Edinburgh will hold Japanese whisky tastings and masterclasses.
Outside London, the 90 Days of Nikka celebrations will extend to various venues in the Hyde & Co Group, including Milk Thistle, The Raven, Seven Lucky Gods, Four Wise Monkeys, The Ox, and Flour & Ash. Each venue will feature unique cocktail menus highlighting Nikka Days, Coffey Gin, and Vodka. A special ‘closing industry service’ event will take place on December 2nd, marked by the celebratory opening of a 3-litre bottle of Nikka from the Barrel.
Overall
Nikka’s 90th-anniversary celebration offers a rare opportunity to explore the brand’s rich heritage through a series of events and exclusive releases. From immersive whisky tastings and masterclasses to specially crafted cocktails at renowned UK venues, 90 Days of Nikka provides a comprehensive experience for both seasoned whisky lovers and newcomers alike. With the launch of THE NIKKA NINE DECADES IX and a variety of events across the country, this milestone celebration honours Nikka’s legacy while showcasing its continued dedication to innovation and craftsmanship.
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All imagery courtesy of Nikka Whisky.