Description
The Kyoto Gin is the flagship botanical expression from the Kyoto Miyako Distillery, Japan’s premier craft distillery located in the heart of the Kyotamba region.
This gin is designed to bridge the gap between “Old World” London Dry traditions and the unique, ethereal flavors of ancient Kyoto.
Adorned with the signature Nishijin-ori silk label, this bottle represents the pinnacle of Japanese craft, focusing on a precise balance of traditional juniper, local spice, and the world-renowned tea culture of Kyoto.
The Botanicals: A Balance of Sweet & Spice
The Kyoto Gin is crafted using a curated selection of 8 botanicals. The recipe focuses on “The Great Balance,” ensuring that the unique Japanese ingredients harmonize with the core gin structure rather than overwhelming it.
Matcha (Green Tea): Sourced from Kyoto’s historic tea fields, providing a deep, umami-rich base and a vibrant, grassy freshness.
Japanese Cinnamon (Nikki): Adds a delicate woody sweetness and a characteristic Kyoto warmth.
Juniper & Citrus: Provides the essential “traditional style” backbone, ensuring a crisp and refreshing profile.
The Craft: Kyoto Heritage
Kyotamba Soft Water: The distillery uses exceptionally soft water from the Yura River, which creates a smooth, approachable mouthfeel that lacks any harsh alcoholic “bite.”
Spiciness Meets Sweetness: The hallmark of this expression is the interplay between the spicy kick of the cinnamon and the natural sweetness of the malt spirit and tea.
Nishijin Textile Label: The label is a piece of Kyoto history, woven using traditional methods that have served the Japanese Imperial Court for centuries.
The Appearance: Crystal clear with high viscosity.
The Nose: Sophisticated and layered. It opens with classic juniper and pine, followed by a serene wave of earthy Matcha and a hint of sweet spice.
The Palate: Silky and well-rounded. The traditional gin botanicals are present on the entry, giving way to a rich, herbaceous mid-palate of green tea and soft cinnamon.
The Finish: Refreshing and clean. A gentle, lingering sweetness is balanced by a final, spicy “ping” from the cinnamon.
IWSC (International Wine & Spirit) 91 Points (Silver) 2023
SFWSC (San Francisco World Spirits) Silver Medal 2023
ISC (International Spirits Challenge) Bronze Medal 2023