The Taketsuru range is named after the founder of the Nikka Whisky Company, Masataka Taketsuru. The Taketsuru whiskies are a combination of single malt whiskies from Nikka's two distilleries, Yoichi and Miyagikyo. In the 17 year old, a high percentage of the whiskies have been aged in ex-sherry casks, resulting in a deep, rich, complex whisky with more than a hint of smoke and oak.
Nikka Taketsuru 21 Year Old is an outstanding dram, so much so that it was awarded World's Best Blended Malt Whisky in the World Whiskies Awards 2010. This one has lots of lovely coffee and chocolate notes on the palate, and it is just divine.
"Tsuru" meaning crane in Japanese is a graceful bird with a long neck, the decanter has likenesses of the bird on the bottom half as well as, itself, having a long neck. This 17 year old Blend with its slightly woody note is an absolute must for every Japanese whisky lover.