Nikka Coffey Gin is one of several quality Japanese gins to hit the US over the last few years. And it’s easily one of the best.
Learn what it tastes like, how it stacks up against Suntory gin, how it’s made, how to mix it, and more. I also include links to online retailers so you can compare prices and get the best deal.
Nikka’s Gin
Nikka introduced Coffey Gin and Vodka to their Coffey whisky lineup in 2017. The name refers to the Coffey still used for distillation. This old-school continuous column design creates rich-flavored and creamy-textured spirits.
Nikka’s Coffey still is housed at the Miyagikyo Distillery in Miyagi, Japan. It’s Nikka’s second distillery and home to multiple copper pot stills, as well. You can learn more about the Miyagikyo Distillery and Nikka here.
Coffey Gin Tasting Notes
Nikka Coffey Gin is a rich gin with a supple texture. Citrus notes dominate, with juniper present in the background. The first sip seems slightly sweet, and a spicy, herbal flavor is prominent on the finish. And there are also hints of fresh flowers, apples, and pears.
Overall, this is a luxurious Japanese gin. It’s quite fruity and herbal, and the silky texture is impressive.
This is an excellent gin to sip on the rocks. And it’s also amazing in several classic cocktails. More on that later. But first, let’s take a look at Coffey Gin’s main competitor.
Nikka Coffey Gin vs Roku Gin
For every Nikka product, there is a Suntory rival, and vice-versa. So it makes sense to compare Suntory Roku to Nikka Coffey Gin.
In general, both of these Japanese craft gins are outstanding. Each is citrus-forward with spice and restrained juniper.
The biggest difference is textural. Roku gin is leaner and fresher. Nikka’s gin has a fat texture with a sweeter impression.
In terms of flavor, Roku is more herbal, spicy, and floral. Coffey Gin, on the other hand, is fruitier.
Both of these gins were introduced around the same time. Initially, Suntory Roku was much cheaper. But Nikka eventually lowered the price of Coffey Gin. And now the two are roughly the same price.
Check out my Suntory Roku Gin review to learn more.
Coffey Gin Price
If you’re in a major city, I always recommend trying this gin before committing to a bottle. Restaurants and bars typically charge between $8 and $12 for a 1.5-ounce pour. This is based on a wholesale price estimate of $30.
At one time, Nikka Coffey gin was one of the most expensive gins on the market. It was selling as high as $80 retail. This was kind of crazy, and in my opinion, an attempt to cash on the craze for Japanese whisky.
Luckily, the price of Nikka’s gin has come way down. The average price in the US for a 750ml bottle is around $40. The low-end of the range is around $35, and some retailers charge as much as $55. Some of this depends on the market. But you’ll want to be sure to shop around to find the best price.
Many large retailers carry this gin. Stores like Total Wine, Binny’s, Costco, BevMo! are great places to check. But if you want to save yourself some gas and cash, I’ll discuss online retailers in a moment.
Armed with these price estimates, let’s look at some online retailers.
Buy Coffey Gin
As with any Japanese spirit, you’ll want to shop around to find the best price. Some retailers capitalize on the high demand and charge too much.
Below is a list of sponsored online stores. As an affiliate advertiser for these companies, I earn a commission if you purchase through these links. This won’t increase your price, but it does support my blog.
Nikka Coffey Gin Specs
- 47% abv
- 11 botanicals
- Four Japanese citrus: Yuzu, Kabosu, Amanatsu, Shequasar
- Juniper, angelica root, coriander seeds, lemon peel, orange peel
- Apple
- Nikka has a rich history with apples
- Japanese sansho pepper
- Base spirit is corn and malted barley
Nikka Coffey Gin Cocktails
This is my favorite Japanese gin for mixing. Coffey Gin is great with soda or as a gin and tonic. But it really shines in classic cocktails that feature citrus or herbal notes.
The French 75, Dry Martini, and Gimlet are three excellent drinks that are delicious when made with Nikka Coffey Gin.
Another go-to cocktail with Coffey Gin is the Negroni. This classic already features plenty of citrusy, herbal, and spicy notes. Nikka’s gin complements these features perfectly. And the big body and round texture really stand out.
A Lemon Drop is another drink that marries perfectly with Nikka Coffey’s big body and citrusy nature. Even better, try a Yuzu Drop. This variation substitutes yuzu-shu, yuzu juice, or both into the cocktail.
How Do You Drink Nikka Gin?
What’s your favorite way to enjoy Coffey Gin? I can’t think of a better gin to use in a gimlet or dry martini. But I also like it on the rocks.