Yoichi Peaty & Salty Single Malt Whisky NV (1x50cl)

First, the bottle size: this is a 50cl, not the usual 70cl, so it is a smaller pour overall - handy if you want to try the style without committing to a full bottle, and easy to slot in as a gift add-on.

The release name does the explaining. Yoichi sits on the coast in Hokkaido, up in the north of Japan, and "Peaty & Salty" points straight at smoke with a briny, sea-air edge. That profile is unusual among Japanese malts, most of which go in a gentler direction, and it lands much closer to what peat drinkers already look for. Good bottle for the friend who orders smoky whisky every time.

Tasting notes

Going by the name and the house style, expect peat smoke and a salty coastal lift rather than sweetness. Whisky like this is usually taken neat or with a few drops of water to open it up, and it stands up to grilled meat, oysters or anything off a charcoal fire.