Industry News & Events

Nikka The First Pour: A New Pour in Indonesia’s Whisky Culture

13 June 2025

"I want to make a good whisky." This dream and passion originated from Masataka Taketsuru, a man who dedicated his life to whisky-making and is known as the Father of Japanese Whisky. Nikka Whisky is the embodiment of his dream, and it has officially launched in Indonesia through standout events in Bali and Jakarta.

Nikka The First Pour began on 19 May at the Grand Hyatt Bali, where Nikka’s Brand Ambassador, Koki Kitamura, shared the brand story through a brief talk show, offering guests deeper insights about the whisky. Following the insightful talk show, the evening became more lively as Aki Nakata, the winner of the Nikka Perfect Serve 2024 from Singapore’s Origin Bar, crafted Japanese-inspired Nikka cocktails under the open sky.

The launch continued at The St. Regis Jakarta, where Koki Kitamura led the guests through a tasting journey of Nikka’s four expressions: Taketsuru, Yoichi, Miyagikyo, and From the Barrel. Each of them was showcased in its immersive room, turning the tasting into a journey that elevates the whisky experience with tailored settings, atmosphere, and storytelling.

The series concluded at Modernhaus with Aki Nakata as the guest bartender to take over for a night, showcasing her signature Nikka cocktails in a refined and lively ambience.

Nikka’s Indonesian debut fused elegance, expertise, and discovery, from cocktails to elevated tastings, cementing its presence as a premium staple in Indonesia’s whisky market.

Nikka Whisky is imported and distributed exclusively by PT Pantja Artha Niaga and is available through the online shop at www.minuman.com and at selected bars in Indonesia.