Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky Classification: Japanese Single Grain Whisky Proof: 90 (45%) Age: NAS Mashbill: 95% corn, 5% Malted Barley Distillery: Nikka Whisky Distilling Company, Miyagikyo Distillery, Honshu, Japan Price: $55 - $65 Color: Medium-Dark Gold Nose: Sweet, caramel, vanilla, hint of fruit Palate: Crisp, Quite Sweet, Small bit of heat, cherry-like fruitiness, thin mouthfeel, slight smokiness, very smallest hint of malt - barely noticeable Finish: Medium finish, still fairly sweet, slightly dry, caramel, toasted cereal grains, slight smokiness, floral perfume hints in the sinuses Personal Rating: 6.75/10 Notes: With the weather being so warm lately, I’ve been exploring a few Japanese bottles here and there. Being a bourbon guy, Nikka Coffey Grain gets recommended quite a bit. And for good reason. Some say it is basically a Japanese Bourbon, some say it isn’t at all. What I know with certainty is that it is a great choice for a summertime pour. The crisp sweetness makes this a great drink that doesn’t “warm you up.” It is quite refreshing actually. I wouldn’t say it is a complex pour, but there are some interesting flavors in there that make it enjoyable...if nothing else but for an aperitif or dessert drink. I really don’t think you need to add anything to the Whisky to fully enjoy it, maybe a single ice cube or some whiskey stones to lower the actual temperature, but overall it is good as it is. Should you buy a bottle? Sure, why not if you are interested, but if you don’t you aren’t missing out on anything ground breaking, maybe just grab a glass at your local watering hole during happy hour