Nikka Whisky’s core portfolio I Photo by Star Sabroso
Award-winning Nikka Whisky, founded in 1934 by the legendary Masataka Taketsuru, is a pioneer in Japanese whisky. While you may have already seen Nikka’s products in Manila’s leading bars, this June officially marks its debut in the Philippines, exclusively distributed by Grand Cru Wines and Spirits, with a series of exclusive tasting events.
The celebration kicked off with the opening of their new bar upstairs at Quezon City’s cocktail hotspot, ReCraft. This intimate space is an invite-only spot, reserved for VIPs and industry friends. Led by Cedric Mendoza, the bar will spotlight Nikka’s lineup of whiskies and serve up creative whisky-based cocktails. It’s a sleek new way to experience one of Japan’s most iconic spirits—definitely not one to miss, well, that is if you can get in.
Following the bar opening, Nikka marked its foray in the Philippines with a launch event on June 19 at restaurant Yawaragi located on the fifth floor of Hotel Okura Manila. It was an exclusive evening of premium spirits as Nikka Whisky unveiled its most celebrated expressions.
Guests were able to sample drams of its core range: Taketsuru Pure Malt, Yoichi Single Malt, Miyagikyo Single Malt, Nikka From The Barrel, as well as Nikka Days, Super Nikka, The Nikka Tailored, and its line of Coffey grain, malt, gin, and vodka.
Attendees also had the opportunity to learn about Nikka’s rich heritage in whisky-making and engage with Nikka’s regional manager in Asia, Koki Kitamura, and other brand representatives. Alongside the whisky drams, the event featured cocktails, including a Horse’s Neck with Nikka From The Barrel Whisky and a Whisky Highball with Taketsuru Pure Malt. Chef Ikuma Sato of Yawragi prepared Japanese dishes to complement Nikka’s offerings. The menu included three kinds of Aburi Nigiri Sushi, Baked Herb Asian Seabass with Miso Beurre Blanc, Grilled Tenderloin with Maldon Sea Salt and Portwine Arima Sansho Jus, and finished with a Black Sesame Panna Cotta with Yuzu Gel and Whisky Caramel Sauce.
The week concluded with another tasting event at The Spirits Library’s Detention Room on Friday, June 20. For PHP 4,800 per person, whisky enthusiasts had the opportunity to sample a diverse range of Nikka whiskies—from the core lineup to limited editions, discontinued bottlings, and rare aged malts.
Highlights included the Nikka Single Cask 25 Year Old Single Malt Whisky, the exceptional 90th anniversary bottling, Nikka Nine Decades, as well as selections from The Spirits Library’s owner, Lee Watson’s private collection.
Nikka Whisky’s core range is now available at online and on-ground retailers in Manila. Follow @grandcru.wsi on Instagram to stay updated on future tasting events.
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