Discover the Unique Nikka Coffey Malt
The Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky is a distinctive expression crafted in 2013, born from Nikka’s ongoing experiments to diversify its offerings and excite whisky enthusiasts. Made from 100% malted barley, this whisky is distilled in a Coffey still and matured in old casks. This process enhances its rich maltiness, complexity, and silky texture. Despite being made from malted barley, it is categorized as a grain whisky because it is not distilled in a pot still.
The Distillation Process
Nikka Coffey Malt is produced using “Coffey” type column stills, typically used for grain whisky. This unique distillation method gives the whisky a rich texture and deep oaky notes. The Coffey still, patented in 1830 by Aeneas Coffey, was first brought to Japan by Masataka Taketsuru, who learned its use in Scotland in 1919. Nikka imported its first Coffey still in 1963 and the second in 1966. These traditional stills are challenging to operate but retain the ingredients’ flavors and deliver a distinctive creamy texture.
Tasting Notes
Colour: Gold
Nose: Lively and citrusy. Lemon, pear, pepper, vanilla, and coffee with milk
Palate: Creamy and gourmand. Citrus aromatics (clementine, orange), coffee, praline, rum baba, vanilla cream, plum, and greengage
Finish: Prune, Mirabelle plum, liquorice, and more fruit
Serving Suggestions
Recommended Serves
- Straight
- On the rocks
- Cocktails
Food Pairings
- Pastries
- Milk chocolate
- Caramel-based desserts
- Panettone
The Legacy of Coffey Stills
Coffey stills are renowned for their ability to retain the original flavors of ingredients, resulting in a whisky with a distinctive creamy texture. Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Nikka Whisky, recognized the value of these stills and incorporated them into his distillation process. Nikka Coffey Malt and its counterpart, Nikka Coffey Grain, highlight the beauty and uniqueness of these traditional stills.
Experience the exceptional Nikka Coffey Malt, a whisky that combines traditional craftsmanship with innovative distillation techniques to deliver a rich and complex flavor profile.