Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky

Continuing to sample bottles from my collection that I haven't yet reviewed. The term “Coffey” refers to a specific still type, not a beverage. This still design originated in early 19th-century Scotland and was brought to Japan in the early 20th century. I have four Nikka whiskies currently: these two, plus the Taketsuru Pure Malt and the Nikka Whisky From The Barrel. I need to revisit the latter, as my last assessment over a year ago gave it a score of 4.25, and I've since tasted it and found it to be even better. I've had the Coffey Malt and Coffey Grain for a while and remember not enjoying the former, but really liking the latter. Nikka Coffey Malt Its color is a clear, bright gold, similar to Pantone 116. It's been a long time since I last tried this, but I recall it reminded me of a Halls Honey Lemon cough drop. The aroma is initially reserved, but presents a lemon-honey-eucalyptus character; this sounds unusual, but it's not as unappealing as it sounds. The taste offers a honey sweetness and a light, smooth glycerin texture. A lingering coolness is present on the finish, along with some chili spice and a hint of bitterness (possibly from woody tannins, although I'm uncertain of the barrel type, I'm fairly sure it's not Mizunara oak, which would typically be highlighted on the bottle). This is a distinctive whisky, unlike anything I've encountered before, and might be worth exploring for the curious connoisseur. I suspect it's also divisive. Nikka released this expression in 2013 to "offer more excitements [sic] to afficionados." Additionally, some distillate from Ben Nevis is included, meaning it doesn't qualify as Japanese Whisky. I believe I paid around $60 a few years ago, and a quick online check indicates either can be purchased for about $70 today. The 45% ABV is appreciated, and the flavors are strong enough to support it; a higher proof suggests a focus on quality over cost-effectiveness (i.e., less water dilution and greater yield). The quality is evident, as is a robust flavor profile; however, the flavors themselves are unconventional. That said, I enjoy it more now than the last time I tried it, and I would keep a bottle on hand for variety. 3.75 out of 5 stars. Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky Its color is a rich Pantone 123, with a slight orange hue compared to the more golden Coffey Malt. The aroma is completely different from the Coffey Malt: it's sweet, with bourbon-like notes of caramelized sugar, a touch of vanilla, cornbread, and some mint. If tasted blind, I would have guessed bourbon. The taste is substantial, like the Pillsbury Dough Boy: soft, round, heavy, and persistent. It has a viscous mouthfeel, with honey, Cheerios, and orange, finishing with the same chili (not pepper) spice, and again a hint of vanilla. A pleasant finish. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE this whisky. As expected, given its bourbon-like qualities, Nikka states it is "predominantly made from corn." Similar to the Coffey Malt, it's also 45% ABV, which is noticeable and well-integrated. According to the company, the Coffey Grain meets all the requirements for "Japanese Whisky" (I hadn't realized a corn-heavy mash bill would allow for that). Rich, sweet, and bold, Nikka Coffey Grain excels and provides another unique drinking experience, considering its origin. I would always keep this on hand (I've had a backup for some time). An easy 4.25 stars. Note: All spirits were tasted neat in a Glencairn glass.

This is a subtle and refined spirit from start to finish. It's quite intricate, yet masterfully put together. The complexity is evident, but nothing feels out of place, creating a harmonious experience that elevates the entire drink. The finish is particularly pleasing – surprisingly sweet and smooth, with a lingering, perfectly judged intensity. Notes of honey and cinnamon give it a familiar, approachable character, and its near-buttery texture hints at breakfast-style whiskies.

Aroma: Overpowering vanilla, smells like shaving cream and aftershave, a bit too much alcohol, with some softer fruit/floral scents mixed in. Palate: Intense vanilla, cream, vanilla frosting, a hint of oak, cinnamon, almond, possibly peanut shells. It has a pleasant, thick coating mouthfeel. Finish: Vanilla (though less intense), butterscotch, some warmth, a bit of cinnamon, a cooling mint sensation. Quite wonderful. Sadly, it's a little harsh; it just tastes young. And it's really a bit too pricey for something that tastes young. It might be worth around $40 if it wasn't Japanese. It's comparable to, and slightly better than, some Mars Iwai I've sampled which are priced closer to $45 (and do carry a Japanese premium). But that's how whisky goes, and the liquid is otherwise quite good. Give it a try. Join an unofficial community for spirit enthusiasts on Discord (it's been a year!): https://discord.gg/4nfePCdyKM. We discuss spirits (and other things) live, serving as a great resource for recommendations, finding deals, and enjoying the journey together. (If the link expires, which it shouldn't, please leave a comment and I'll happily provide a new one, usually quickly.)

My second favorite among the Nikka Coffey still bottlings. Nose: sweet, like candy corn, with a very soft alcohol scent and a floral, perfumy hint. Taste: smooth with notes of grass, lemon, and vanilla. Finish: very short, with a tiny bit of cinnamon at the end. You can discern the barley, but it doesn't taste like Mellow Corn, even though corn is reportedly the main grain. It's a decent whisky but not worth the $75-90 price tag. Worth considering if found on sale.

Nose: caramel, browned sugar, and honey notes mingle with vanilla, a hint of fruit, and subtle floral undertones, evoking an autumn festival atmosphere. Palate: Richer notes of browned sugar, honey, and fruit are joined by cinnamon and spice, complemented by a light peppery and herbaceous quality on the brief finish. While not the conventional profile of a Japanese whisky, its origin is still apparent. An appealing and worthwhile experience.

The aroma is lovely. I detected a sweet vanilla scent with hints of cherry, reminiscent of vanilla/cherry soda. On the palate, it coated my mouth like honey, offering a spicy sweetness. The finish was brief and very gentle, with a hint of warmth. It's a good dram overall. The initial sweetness in the aroma and the silky smooth finish make it memorable. 7/10