Miyagikyo whisky is one of Japan’s most beloved single malts, known for its soft, elegant character and refined flavors. Born from the vision of Nikka Whisky’s founder, Masataka Taketsuru, and crafted in the lush mountains of Miyagi Prefecture, this whisky offers a gentler contrast to its bold sibling, Yoichi. Whether you’re a whisky enthusiast or just curious about Japan’s unique approach to whisky making, Miyagikyo has a story—and a taste—that’s worth exploring. Keep reading to discover what makes it so special.
What is Miyagikyo whisky?

Miyagikyo is a single malt whisky that debuted in 1989. Nikka Whisky crafted it using malt produced at the Miyagikyo Distillery, their second whisky distillery, which they established in 1969. Located in a lush, mountainous valley in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, the distillery draws on its serene environment, where pure water and clean air create ideal conditions for whisky making. The name “Miyagikyo” means “Miyagi Gorge,” reflecting this beautiful natural setting. By using indirect steam distillation, the distillery gives Miyagikyo whisky its refined aroma and distinct mellowness.
Miyagikyo whisky History

The history of Miyagikyo whisky is deeply tied to the vision of its founder, Masataka Taketsuru. While Nikka’s whisky roots trace back to 1934 in Yoichi, Hokkaido—where its predecessor company, Dainippon Kaju, originally produced apple juice—the growing demand for whisky in the 1960s prompted a need for more raw liquor. By the mid-1960s, during Japan’s whisky boom, Nikka faced shortages and sought to expand. Taketsuru, inspired by the idea of blending diverse whiskies domestically (similar to the Highland and Lowland styles of Scotland), searched for a new distillery site.
He found it in a serene valley in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. Captivated by the area’s natural beauty, pure water, and the presence of the Nikkawa River, he decided to build what became the Miyagikyo Distillery, completed in 1969. To commemorate this milestone, Nikka distributed a rare blended whisky labeled “Old Nikka Sendai Factory Commemorative Label” to industry insiders. This special release combined treasured Yoichi malt with grain whisky from Nishinomiya, as Miyagikyo had not yet begun producing its own raw liquor.
Taketsuru’s dream was to craft uniquely Japanese blended whiskies, using different types of domestic malt. Though he passed away in 1979, before tasting a mature Miyagikyo single malt, his vision lived on. The later release of “Nikka Single Malt Miyagikyo 15 Year” stood as a testament to his dream for the distillery and the distinct character he envisioned for its whisky.
Main Characteristics of Miyagikyo whisky

Miyagikyo offers a soft and delicate taste that resembles Lowland malt, in contrast to Yoichi’s bold, masculine strength reminiscent of Highland malt. It blends a sweet, aged vanilla-like aroma with a gentle hint of peat, creating a harmonious and refined profile. You’ll notice elegant fruity notes, both sweet and sour, that bring to mind bananas and apples. Because of its smooth and approachable flavor, many recommend it as a great entry point for those who typically avoid the strong taste of single malts. At one point, Nikka sold five varieties—Single Malt Miyagikyo, 10 Year, 12 Year, 15 Year, and Single Cask Miyagikyo—but now only the non-aged Single Malt Miyagikyo remains available.
Miyagikyo 15 Year Old (Discontinued)

“Miyagikyo 15 Year (Discontinued)” is the highest-ranked premium product of Miyagikyo Distillery, but it was discontinued several years ago, and it is a product that whiskey enthusiasts covet, as it cannot be drunk even at the bar counter of Miyagikyo Distillery.
Othere Rare Miyagikyo Whiskes
Single Malt Miyagikyo 10 Years
This whisky, launched in 2003, is known for its elegant aroma of apples and malt, combined with a silky sweetness. Created within Masataka Taketsuru’s “Lowland style” concept, it represents Miyagikyo’s early light-bodied character expression. After discontinuation, the 10-year-old bottle became highly sought after by collectors. Current secondary market prices range from approximately 220,000 to 300,000 yen per bottle.
Single Malt Miyagikyo 12 Years
Available from 2003 until 2015, the 12-year-old features a bouquet of fruit, honey, and a lingering bittersweet, woody finish. It is one of Miyagikyo’s signature vintage expressions, having received gold medals three times at the International Spirits Challenge. Though originally retailing for about 7,000 yen, bottles now fetch approximately 219,000 yen on the secondary market for 700 ml.
Miyagikyo Apple Brandy Wood Finish (2020)
This limited edition release underwent additional six-month aging in casks previously used for apple brandy. The result is a whisky that combines the sweet and tart character of apples with a complex woody bitterness. With only 6,450 bottles released, its official retail price was 16,500 yen, but it is currently found for 35,000 to 50,000 yen.
Miyagikyo Manzanilla Wood Finish (2018)
This edition was finished for 18 months in casks that previously held Manzanilla sherry for 50 years. It exudes the fragrance of dried fruits and milk chocolate with a lingering bittersweetness. As only 4,000 bottles were made, it remains rare, with a release price of 15,000 yen and current market prices around 30,000 to 40,000 yen.
Miyagikyo Aromatic Yeast (NIKKA DISCOVERY 2022)
Part of Nikka’s Discovery series, this expression accentuates yeast-derived aromas like apricot and peach. It has a slightly smoky profile at 47% ABV. Only 10,000 bottles were available in Japan with an original price of 22,000 yen. Current prices range between 27,000 and 41,000 yen.
Miyagikyo Peated (NIKKA DISCOVERY 2021)
Unusual for Miyagikyo, this whisky is made only from both heavy and light peated malts, blending fruity flavors with a distinct smokiness. The bottling strength is 48% and is also limited to 10,000 bottles. Released at 22,000 yen, the lowest found on the market recently was about 33,080 yen.
These rare Miyagikyo whiskies are prized due to limited production, discontinuation, or special maturation techniques, making them highly collectible and often available only through auctions or specialty retailers. Their prices are subject to fluctuation depending on supply, demand, and international interest.
Recommended Miyagikyo whisky

Nikka Whisky recommends enjoying Miyagikyo whisky with water, following the “1, 2, 3” method: mix one part whisky with two parts water and add three large ice cubes. Stir well with a muddler and wait about 30 seconds to let the flavors blend. Another option is the “twice-up” style—equal parts whisky and water without ice—preferred by blenders, including Nikka’s founder Taketsuru. For this, use a spherical or stemmed tasting glass to enhance the aroma. To deepen the experience, try comparing Miyagikyo with Yoichi, or explore “Taketsuru,” a blend of both. You can even experiment by blending Miyagikyo’s single malt and grain whiskies to create your own unique mix.
Final Thoughts

Miyagikyo whisky isn’t just a drink—it’s a reflection of Japan’s delicate craftsmanship and deep respect for nature. With its smooth, fruity notes and gentle aroma, it offers a uniquely refined experience. Both beginners and whisky lovers can appreciate this distinctive character. If you ever find yourself in Japan, don’t miss the chance to pick up a bottle. Taste the harmony that comes from decades of dedication and passion at Miyagikyo. It might just become your new favorite.
If you enjoyed learning about Miyagikyo whisky, you might also like exploring other refined Japanese flavors such as Yoichi whisky for a bolder taste or even pairing Miyagikyo with delicate dishes like sashimi, grilled fish, or a light cheese platter to elevate your tasting experience.
Comments