Michael Pendergast Believes Whisky Isn't Just for Connoisseurs

A memorable tasting deserves an equally exceptional setting. So, naturally Nikka From The Barrel partnered with Maison Assouline to create an exclusive experience showcasing its celebrated blended whisky. The event was led by brand ambassador Michael Pendergast, an acclaimed mixologist and authority on Japanese spirits. Honoring the brand's 40th anniversary, the evening offered guests a journey through time, exploring the production techniques, blending methodology, and distinctive bottle design that have made this whisky legendary.

Before developing his own appreciation for whisky, Pendergast looked for guidance from enthusiasts. "I'd ask friends who loved whisky to share their favorite drams and explain what they liked about them," he recalls. He immersed himself in masterclasses, like the one he hosted at Maison Assouline, and took meticulous notes along the way. He came to realize that tasting is a skill that improves with practice. "The more you work at it, the better you become. And once you discover a whisky you love, it opens the door to an entire world."

The process of exploration and refinement is also evident in Pendergast’s creative approach. When it comes to the perfect cocktail, context is everything. At a dinner party with limited ingredients, Pendergast reaches for crowd-pleasers that complement the meal, like a New York Sour. For celebrations, he builds drinks around one or two key flavors, balancing them out with sweet and bitter elements. "When in doubt, a Manhattan or Old Fashioned with maple syrup will never let you down," he says. For those seeking whisky and food pairings, Pendergast has excellent advice. With blends such as Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt or Nikka Tailored, umami-rich ingredients shine—think fatty tuna, dry-aged beef, and wood-grown shiitake mushrooms. "I would be remiss if I didn't mention fried chicken," he adds. In fact, fried chicken with any kind of spice paired with Nikka From The Barrel ranks among his all-time favorite combinations. 

Whether you're discovering whisky for the first time or deepening an existing passion, Pendergast offers a clear roadmap: start with curiosity, practice intentionally, and let each tasting build your knowledge. The evening at Maison Assouline embodied this philosophy, proving that the best way to understand an exceptional whisky is to experience it in good company, with thoughtful pairings, and in a setting that honors its craftsmanship.