Nikka Coffey Vodka is the premium Japanese vodka in Nikka's Coffey range, launched in 2017 from the same Coffey stills at Miyagikyo Distillery near Sendai that produce Nikka's signature grain whiskies. The stills, named after their inventor Aeneas Coffey rather than the beverage coffee, were imported from Scotland in 1963 and produce a distillate with noticeably richer texture than modern column stills. Corn and malted barley are distilled separately into multiple batches at slightly different ABVs and profiles, then expertly blended and filtered through Japanese white birch charcoal. The result is a vodka with character and texture, awarded Best Japanese Varietal Trophy at the 2020 World Vodka Awards.
ABV / Proof
| Brand |
Nikka Whisky |
| Producer |
The Nikka Whisky Distilling Co. (Asahi) |
| Type |
Premium Japanese Vodka |
| Distillery |
Miyagikyo Distillery, Sendai, Miyagi |
| Still Type |
Coffey Still (imported from Scotland, 1963) |
| Base |
Corn and Malted Barley (distilled separately, then blended) |
| Filtration |
White Birch Charcoal |
| Launched |
2017 |
| Award |
Best Japanese Varietal Trophy, 2020 World Vodka Awards |
| ABV |
40% |
| Proof |
80 |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Country |
Japan |
| Packaging |
Bottle only |
Tasting Notes
Color: Crystal clear with a soft silver sheen.
Nose: Subtle citrus zest, soft cereal grain, vanilla, and a touch of white pepper.
Palate: Full bodied and silky, with rich corn sweetness, milky mouthfeel, baked bread, and gentle barley malt character.
Finish: Long and smooth, with lingering creamy texture, soft spice, and clean grain warmth.
FAQ
What is a Coffey still and why does it matter? The Coffey still is the world's first patented continuous still, invented by Aeneas Coffey in 1830. It runs at lower distillation strength than modern column stills, retaining more of the base grain's character. Nikka imported their Coffey stills from Scotland in 1963 and uses them to produce their celebrated grain whiskies, gin, and vodka. The result is a more textured, flavorful vodka than typical neutral spirits.
Does Nikka Coffey Vodka taste like coffee? No. The "Coffey" in the name refers to the still, not the bean. The flavor profile is creamy, lightly sweet, and grain forward, with notes of corn sweetness and malted barley rather than anything coffee related.
How does it compare to other premium vodkas? Where many premium vodkas chase neutrality, Nikka Coffey Vodka leans into texture and grain character, similar in philosophy to wheat or grape based vodkas like Cîroc or Belvedere but with a distinctly Japanese expression. Excellent neat, in a martini, Bloody Mary, Salty Dog, or Moscow Mule where the texture shines.
Where can I buy Nikka Coffey Vodka online? Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
