Ki No Tea Kyoto Dry Gin

Description

Ki No Tea Kyoto Dry Gin Bottling Note

Ki No Tea Kyoto Dry Gin is a sophisticated, tea-led expression from The Kyoto Distillery, Japan’s first artisanal distillery dedicated solely to gin. This release is a creative collaboration with Horii-Shichimeien, a historic tea-grower and blender based in the renowned Uji region, whose heritage dates back to 1879. By integrating centuries of tea expertise into modern distillation, the distillery has produced a spirit that serves as a liquid homage to Kyoto’s famous tea culture.

The manufacturing process remains faithful to the distillery’s signature “six elements” philosophy, but with a heightened focus on the tea category. Premium Tencha and Gyokuro teas, harvested from the Okunoyama tea garden, are distilled individually to capture their delicate, amino-acid-rich sweetness. Like the flagship bottling, the base is a high-quality rice spirit, providing a smooth, neutral canvas that allows the botanical oils to shine. The final blend is brought to strength using the famous soft water of Fushimi, traditionally prized by local sake brewers for its purity.

In terms of character, Ki No Tea offers a deeply aromatic profile that differs significantly from standard dry gins. The heavy influence of Uji tea creates a natural, white chocolate-like sweetness on the palate, which is balanced by a backbone of juniper and the bright, citrus lift of yuzu. The texture is notably creamy and silky, leading into a long, clean finish characterised by the scent of roasted green tea and a gentle, grassy dryness.

Ki No Tea Kyoto Dry Gin Tasting Note

Nose: Soft aromas of green tea and gentle citrus rise first, supported by a mild herbal character that reflects the gin’s tea‑focused profile. The overall impression is calm, clean and slightly sweet.

Palate: A smooth and rounded texture with clear notes of sencha and gyokuro, balanced by light spice and a touch of citrus brightness. The tea influence gives the spirit a composed and steady character.

Finish: Moderately long, with lingering green tea tones and a subtle dryness that gradually settles.

Overall: A refined gin centred around Kyoto’s tea heritage, offering a measured and harmonious expression of its botanicals.