In 1985, Nikka Whisky released a bold whisky packaged in a small square bottle named NIKKA FROM THE BARREL. Master Blender Shigeo Sato chose to draw the whisky’s rich character from its source: the barrel whilst graphic designer Taku Satoh created a minimalist style for its packaging. Together they created NIKKA FROM THE BARREL, a carefully crafted blend designed to stand out through power and precision – which would go on to become a true global icon.

To celebrate this milestone, Nikka Whisky has released two new creations in the UK in time for Christmas:  NIKKA From the Barrel Extra Marriage, and a gift set of three bottles designed around the NIKKA From the Barrel Extra Marriage blend.

LIMITED EDITION NIKKA FROM THE BARREL EXTRA MARRIAGE

40 years after NIKKA FROM THE BARREL was created, it is celebrated with Extra Marriage – a limited anniversary release available as a limited edition.

This expression brings together grain whisky from Nikka’s renowned Coffey stills with malt whiskies sourced primarily from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries. The limited release takes the original From the Barrel and pushes it even further, adding a cask marriage period of twice as long. The result is a whisky that balances vibrancy, elegance, and layered complexity.

Presented in its original bottle and adorned with a new silver label stamped with the words Extra Marriage, this whisky is a tribute to 40 years of expertise.

Tasting Notes: Nikka from the Barrel Extra Marriage opens with notes of honey, beeswax and tropical pineapple along with nutmeg and ginger. There is also a gentle, elegant smoky character with a rich earthiness. On the palate there is candied lemon and cocoa powder along with roasted cereals and plum jam ending with a flinty, salty peat note.

3 Bottle Gift Box Set

Nikka is also releasing a limited-edition gift set designed as an immersion into the blend. The trio offers a rare chance to explore the new Extra Marriage bottling alongside two of the key components that define its signature character, the malt and grain whiskies.

Staying true to Nikka’s philosophy, the trio highlights the mastery of balance, allowing drinkers to appreciate each element on its own before seeing how they come together in harmony.

Alongside The Bottle of Nikka From the Barrel Extra Marriage is Malt Pieces of the Barrel. This whisky provides a chance to explore the malt side of the blend, revealing bold notes of peat and smoke, unfolding with layers of malt, herbs, fruit, and spice showcasing the strength and structure that Yoichi and Miyagikyo bring to the mix. A small addition of heavily peated Yoichi whisky aged in new American oak adds depth and a long, satisfying finish.

Completing the trio is Grain Pieces of the Barrel which highlights the softer, more rounded grain component. It opens with fresh notes of vanilla, fruit, herbs and flowers over a warm, spicy backbone with hints of chili. A touch of Satsuma Tsukasa’s corn and rye whisky, along with matured Coffey grain, brings vibrancy to the whole.

By combining three unique expressions, this gift set provides rare insight into the creation of NIKKA FROM THE BARREL, offering the chance to understand each element individually before experiencing Extra Marriage. It’s a fitting celebration of 40 years of Japanese craftsmanship and blending mastery.