Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky
90 Proof
Price Point: $55 – $65 for 750 ML
Distiller: The Nikka Whisky Distilling Co., Ltd., Japan
Background
I’ve been on a bit of a kick lately of purchasing whiskeys just because they are wildly different than the norm. I recently saw Corsair Quinoa on the shelf, and had to buy it (despite its questionable price point given its age) just because it was made from a grain not typically associated with whiskey. I’ve experimented with some white dog whiskeys and even ventured into (gasp!) flavored whiskeys (Sons of Liberty Hop and Pumpkin Spice, to be exact).
I saw this bottle of Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky sitting on the shelf, badly needing a home, and thought it was just weird enough for me to buy it. Again, despite the price point. I had the pleasure of sampling Nikka’s 12 Year Old Pure Malt a few months back, and greatly enjoyed it. How different could this one be?
Review
The nose on Nikka Coffey Grain is just that – grainy. This is not a great quality for my nose and preferences. There are some creamy vanilla notes with toasted almonds. It’s strangely difficult to nose this whisky without experiencing a burning sensation in the nostrils.
Grain, grain, and more grain. This just doesn’t do it for me. Nikka Coffey Grain is nutty and drinks somewhat hot. There are subtle notes of caramel that emerge after letting the whisky coat the inside of the glass, and finally some banana, too.
There’s sweet sugar cane on the initial finish. Afterward, it’s a little bitter and off-putting.
Rating & Recommendations
Nikka Coffey Grain isn’t my cup of tea (or whisky), earning a rating of 76 out of 100.
Perhaps it’s just my palate, but I can’t seem to get on board with grain whiskies. Compass Box Hedonism didn’t do well with me and neither does this one.
-Ryan