Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky
ABV: 45% | Origin: Japan | Size: 700ml

Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky 700ml is a distinctive Japanese single malt whisky that stands out for its use of a Coffey still, a type of continuous still typically used for grain whisky production. The result is a smooth, rich whisky with a unique profile, combining fruity sweetness with malty depth. On the nose, it offers aromas of ripe fruits, honey, and a touch of oak, while the palate reveals notes of caramel, vanilla, and a slight spiciness. The finish is long and smooth with hints of dried fruit and a subtle warmth. Nikka Coffey Malt is perfect for those looking to explore the innovative and refined world of Japanese whisky.

Tasting Profile

Color: Rich golden amber.
Nose: Complex aromatic profile with honey, tropical fruits (pineapple, mango), and candied orange peel. Notes of vanilla, cinnamon, clove, and a distinctive malty sweetness develop over time.
Palate: Rich and full-bodied with a velvety texture. Layers of sweet maltiness, baked apples, toffee, and vanilla, complemented by hints of coconut, oak spice, and subtle citrus zest.
Finish: Long and warming with lingering notes of spice, caramel, and gentle oak, leaving a delightful maltiness that persists.

Production Details

Distillation: 100% malted barley, uniquely distilled in a Coffey still (continuous column still) rather than the pot stills typically used for malt whisky.
Innovation: One of the few malt whiskies in the world produced entirely in a Coffey still, creating a distinctive flavor profile.
Aging: Matured in a variety of oak casks, including ex-bourbon barrels.
Non-chill filtered: Bottled without chill filtration to preserve its full flavor profile and natural oils.

Perfect For

Japanese whisky enthusiasts looking to explore beyond traditional pot still malts.
Scotch drinkers seeking something familiar yet uniquely different.
Those who appreciate innovative approaches to whisky production.
Special occasions that call for a distinguished and conversation-worthy spirit.

Expert Notes

"Nikka Coffey Malt challenges whisky conventions by using column stills for malt spirit, resulting in a remarkably complex and distinctive whisky that offers new dimensions to the malt whisky experience."

Serving Suggestions

Neat: Best enjoyed in a tulip-shaped glass to concentrate the complex aromas.
With water: A few drops can open up additional layers of flavor.
Food Pairing: Pairs wonderfully with dark chocolate, dried fruits, apple desserts, and mild cheeses.

Interesting Facts

Named after the "Coffey still" invented by Aeneas Coffey in 1830, not coffee the beverage (though some coffee notes may be detected).
Masataka Taketsuru, Nikka's founder, imported these traditional Coffey stills from Scotland in 1963.
Unlike Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky, this expression is made from 100% malted barley, which is unusual for column still distillation.

Distillery

Nikka Whisky – Founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru, often called the "Father of Japanese Whisky."
Heritage: Taketsuru studied whisky-making in Scotland before returning to Japan to establish the country's whisky industry.
Production Facilities: Nikka operates two distilleries in Japan: Yoichi on Hokkaido and Miyagikyo in northern Honshu.
Notable Characteristic: Commitment to quality and tradition while embracing innovative production methods.