Nikka Trophy Winner's Cup Decanter Japanese Blended Whisky (1980s) 60cl

An older decanter from the 1980s from Nikka in Japan.

It contains whisky from Miyagikyo, Yoichi & grain whisky. These decanter series from Nikka were usually only released in Japan.

About Nikka

Masataka Taketsuru, a prominent figure in Japanese whisky, was born in 1894 into a family of sake brewers in Hiroshima, Japan. He quickly pursued a chemistry education, specializing in fermentation.

He was hired by Settsu Shuzo, a company based in Osaka, which planned to venture into whisky production. To study the art of distillation and whisky making, Masataka Taketsuru boldly decided to go to Glasgow, a decision that would shape the future of Japanese whisky. In 1918, Taketsuru embarked for Scotland.

Enrolled at the University of Glasgow, the young Japanese man also apprenticed at several distilleries, including Longmorn in the Speyside region, Hazelburn in Campbeltown, and James Calder & Co. in Bo'ness.

These experiences allowed him to acquire valuable skills and a deep understanding of whisky distillation and aging techniques.

However, Masataka Taketsuru did not just learn the theory — he immersed himself in Scottish culture. In 1920, he married Jessie Roberta Cowan, known as Rita, a Scottish woman who would provide unwavering support and play a crucial role in his future success in Japan. Together, they dreamed of building the first Japanese whisky distillery.

Taketsuru's marriage to Rita had a significant impact on this journey. On one hand, it fostered a cultural link between Scotland and Japan. On the other, it helped support Taketsuru in pursuing his dream: the creation of a whisky from Japan that could rival the best Scottish whiskies.

The predecessor of Nikka Whisky, Dai Nippon Kaju was founded and Yoichi Distillery was completed. Six years later, they launched the long-awaited first bottle of "Nikka Whisky" which was highly regarded for its quality. However, during the chaotic post-war period, they struggled with the era's economic difficulties. Masataka, bearing his frustration, released a more affordable whisky which met the consumers demand to help overcome tough financial conditions

The company headquarters moved to Tokyo, and the company name was changed to "Nikka Whisky" in 1952, Asahi Breweries supported with investment to the company, allowing it to expand production facilities. The Coffey still was introduced at the Nishinomiya factory, and a new factory (Kashiwa factory) was built to meet the increasing demand for whisky. During this period, signature brands that continue to this day, such as "Black Nikka", "Super Nikka" and "Hi-Nikka" were born

Nikka's second distillery, Miyagikyo Distillery was completed, leading to the release of a variety of blended whiskies with distinctive flavors. In the 1980s, unique characteristic products such as "Single Malt Hokkaido", "Pure Malt," and "From The Barrel" were born. From the late 1970s, the distilleries started actively welcoming visitors for distillery tours.

With the amendment of Japan's Liquor Tax Law in 1989 and the collapse of the economy, demand for whisky in Japan has declined. In 1997, NIKKA launched "Black Nikka Clear Blend", focusing on a more easy to drink taste through the use of non-peated malt. In 2000, they released "Taketsuru Pure Malt 12 Years" at a price range of 2,000 yen. Both products were a challenging norm 12 Years Old in the industry at the time.

In 2001, "Single Cask Yoichi 10 Years Old" received the highest score in a world whisky competition, which was the greatest feat ever for a Japanese Whisky. Furthermore, brands such as Taketsuru continuously won numerous international competitions from 2007. With growing popularity for Japanese Whisky internationally, Nikka's production has been rising since 2008.

*due Mid Feb 2026

43% ABV

60cl