Famed for its bold citrus aroma, each limited-edition Kikka Gin in stainless steel bottles always sells out instantly. The newest release, “Shizuku to Kanzashi,” brings together rich, roasted coffee bitterness with the fresh, fruity character of Kikka Gin—a unique and high-quality creation! With only 1,400 bottles produced, it’s a must-have for gin collectors and coffee lovers alike.

The name is poetic: “Shizuku” means “water droplet,” referring to the coffee extract obtained after brewing, while “Kanzashi” means “hairpin”—alluding to how ripe, red coffee cherries on the tree resemble elegant hairpins. On the surface, the name points to coffee, but it also symbolizes the entire journey from green coffee bean, through roasting, to extraction—a process full of meaning.

Upon opening, the air fills with coffee aroma. The initial nose is pure Yamato citrus, followed by mellow, lightly acidic, roasted coffee notes—the fusion of coffee and fresh fruit is delightful and harmonious. On the palate, the first impression is bright berry sweetness and gentle tartness, gradually giving way to subtle coffee acidity, and finally a long, deep finish dominated by robust coffee and bittersweet notes. The surprising blend of coffee and gin is genuinely delicious!

For a more pronounced coffee bitterness, add a splash of water, though it shines even neat. For this special batch, Yamato Distillery collaborated with Nara’s famed Yamamoto Coffee Roastery to select and roast the beans. The gin base includes Yamato citrus, angelica leaf, “Kotoka” strawberries, and Pinot Noir grape pomace, lending complexity and depth.