Nikka Coffey Gin

Nikka built its name on whisky, and this gin borrows that lineage in the most literal way: it's distilled in a Coffey still, the tall continuous column more often used for grain spirit, which gives the liquid a rounded, almost waxy smoothness you rarely meet in gin. Alongside the usual juniper, coriander, angelica and lemon peel sits a quartet of Japanese citrus, yuzu, kabosu, amanatsu and shequasar, picked for their sharp, fragrant edge.

The nose opens fruity and fresh, all zesty citrus oil over herbs and pine. The palate is complex and elegant, spicy juniper meeting that tart citrus lift, a flick of sansho pepper and a soft floral note beneath. It finishes long and dry, citrus and spice trailing off together. Best in a highball with Japanese tonic and a curl of yuzu zest.