Kyoto Distillery Ki No Tou Old Tom Gin Japanese Barrel-Aged

Kyoto Distillery Ki No Tou Old Tom Gin represents a masterful fusion of traditional English gin styles and Japanese distilling artistry, featuring the refined base of Ki No Bi gin aged in Kyoto whisky barrels. This 700mL expression showcases Japanese botanicals including yuzu citrus, gyokuro green tea, and sanshō pepper, creating an elegantly balanced spirit with natural sweetness and barrel-influenced complexity at 45.7% ABV. Founded in 2016, Kyoto Distillery stands as Japan's first dedicated gin distillery, pioneering the integration of traditional Japanese ingredients with time-honored distillation techniques. Their commitment to local botanicals and artisanal craftsmanship has positioned them at the forefront of the global craft gin renaissance. Collectors seeking exceptional Japanese spirits will find Ki No Tou at sipwhiskey.com, where rare expressions meet discerning palates.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Bright yuzu zest, delicate juniper, toasted oak, dried green tea leaves, subtle vanilla from barrel aging
• Palate: Silky texture with honeyed sweetness, bamboo leaf earthiness, white pepper tingle from sanshō, gentle spice, rounded juniper
• Finish: Medium length with lingering shiso herb, warm oak tannins, crystallized ginger, whisper of smoke

Product Details

Spirit Type	Old Tom Gin
ABV	45.7% (91.4 Proof)
Volume	700mL
Distillery	Kyoto Distillery
Region	Kyoto, Japan
Country	Japan
Base Spirit	Ki No Bi Gin
Barrel Type	Kyoto Whisky Barrels
Key Botanicals	Yuzu, Gyokuro Tea, Sanshō Pepper, Bamboo, Shiso, Juniper

Perfect For

• Japanese Whisky Collectors: Bridge between gin and whisky appreciation with barrel-aged complexity
• Craft Cocktail Enthusiasts: Elevated Martinez, Ramos Gin Fizz, or neat contemplative sipping
• Executive Gifting: Distinctive Japanese craftsmanship in elegant presentation
• Private Tastings: Showcase the evolution of global gin styles and Japanese botanical artistry

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Ki No Tou different from regular London Dry gin?

Ki No Tou is an Old Tom style gin, meaning it has natural sweetness and fuller body compared to London Dry gins. The barrel aging in Kyoto whisky casks adds vanilla, oak, and spice notes while Japanese botanicals like yuzu and gyokuro tea create a distinctly Eastern flavor profile that's both familiar and exotic to Western palates.

How should I serve Ki No Tou Old Tom Gin?

Ki No Tou excels when served neat at room temperature to appreciate its barrel influence and botanical complexity. For cocktails, it shines in classic Old Tom preparations like the Martinez or Tom Collins, where its natural sweetness balances citrus and vermouth beautifully.

What does sanshō pepper taste like in gin?

Sanshō pepper provides a unique tingling sensation and citrusy, floral notes rather than heat. This Japanese pepper creates a mouth-watering effect that enhances other botanicals while adding an authentic Japanese character that distinguishes Ki No Tou from European gins.

Is Ki No Tou suitable for gin and tonic?

While Ki No Tou can make an exceptional G&T, its complexity and price point make it better suited for sipping neat or in spirit-forward cocktails where its barrel aging and unique botanicals can shine. Reserve premium Japanese tonic water if mixing, and garnish with fresh shiso or yuzu peel.

How does Ki No Tou compare to other Japanese gins?

Ki No Tou stands apart through its Old Tom style and barrel aging, offering more sweetness and wood influence than most Japanese gins. While Nikka Coffey Gin emphasizes citrus and Roku showcases seasonal botanicals, Ki No Tou bridges gin and whisky territories with its rich, contemplative character.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.