Kyoto KI NO TEA Gin 700ml

Kyoto KI NO TEA Gin opens with a delicate infusion of Japanese green tea botanicals that redefine what a contemporary gin can be. This limited-release expression from The Kyoto Distillery combines three carefully selected teas—Gyokuro, Sencha, and Akamatsu green tea—with traditional gin botanicals including juniper, yuzu citrus, lemon, and orris root, all distilled with pure water from Kyoto’s renowned sake-brewing district of Fushimi.

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The botanical selection creates a gin that unfolds in layers rather than delivering a single dominant note. Bottled at 45.1% ABV, this expression balances its tea character with pine-accented juniper and bright citrus elements that lend an Earl Grey-like complexity to the aroma. The rice spirit base provides a clean, neutral foundation that allows the botanicals to express themselves with clarity and precision.

Nose: Sweet and delicate with hints of white chocolate, roasted green tea leaves, yuzu citrus, and subtle pine notes from the Akamatsu botanical.

Palate: Gentle sweetness spreads across the tongue first, followed by distinct juniper character that emerges alongside the tea influence. The citrus components add brightness without overwhelming the delicate tea notes, while the texture remains smooth and approachable throughout.

Finish: Long and clean with roasted green tea scents persisting alongside a classic dry gin conclusion that reminds you of the juniper foundation beneath the innovation.

This gin shines when treated as its own category rather than forced into traditional cocktail templates. A simple serve with premium tonic water and a twist of lemon peel allows the tea botanicals to express themselves fully, while the gin also excels in a clean Martini where the delicate botanical interplay takes centre stage. For those wanting to explore further, tea-forward cocktails or citrus-driven recipes like a Southside or Tom Collins provide ideal frameworks for showcasing the yuzu and green tea characteristics.

Home bartenders seeking Japanese craft spirits, gin enthusiasts looking beyond London Dry conventions, and anyone drawn to botanical complexity will find this expression rewarding. The 700ml bottle format and distinctive presentation also make this a thoughtful gift for discerning gin collectors who appreciate innovation rooted in authentic regional ingredients and traditional tea culture from Kyoto prefecture.