There aren’t many Japanese gins, and those that do exist often start with a rice spirit – much like sake. Nikka Gin goes a different route: they use a barley, corn base, giving their gin a more malty essence than most.

Meanwhile, they leverage eleven botanicals, including native Kabosu and Yuzu plants, crisp apples, and fragrant sansho pepper. As a whole, the flavors are far more herbal and citrus than coniferous. It opens tart before transitioning into crisp, herbaceous shiso. It then ventures into bitterness before ascending into a savory finish.

A complex gin with widespread appeal, Nikka Coffey Gin can be served to many without offending any.

Pairs Well With:

We like to lean into Nikka’s citrus nature by blending it into a Gin Sour. In terms of activities, we find this pairing goes well while playing Japanese card games, such as Uta-garuta. We’re still learning but getting better with each round.