KI NO BI Gins: A Japanese Masterpiece of Craft and Tradition
The Spirit of Kyoto in Every Sip
KI NO BI, meaning "The Beauty of the Seasons," is an extraordinary line of Japanese craft gins produced by the Kyoto Distillery. As Japan’s first dedicated gin distillery, KI NO BI is deeply rooted in Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage, blending ancient craftsmanship with modern distilling techniques.
Founded in 2014 by David Croll and Marcin Miller, the Kyoto Distillery was born from a passion for Japanese spirits and locally sourced ingredients. The pair recognized the potential of Japanese botanicals to create a truly unique gin, drawing inspiration from Kyoto’s rich history and natural bounty. After years of research and dedication, the distillery opened its doors in 2016, introducing the world to the first expression of KI NO BI Gin.
The distillery is located in the Fushimi district of Kyoto, a region renowned for its pristine water sources and traditional sake production. This location was carefully chosen not only for its quality water but also to honor the spirit of Kyoto’s craftsmanship. The area’s cultural heritage influences every aspect of KI NO BI’s production, from the use of copper pot stills to the careful selection of botanicals.
From the start, the Kyoto Distillery set out to create a gin that was distinctly Japanese. Each batch is crafted with a meticulous approach that balances tradition and innovation. The result is a gin that captures the essence of Kyoto’s seasons and landscapes, delivering a spirit that is both refined and richly layered.
Crafting KI NO BI: A Modular Approach to Perfection
One of the key innovations behind KI NO BI Gin is the distillery’s unique modular distillation method. Unlike traditional gin production, which often combines all botanicals in one distillation, KI NO BI separates its ingredients into six distinct flavor categories:
- Base - Juniper and orris root, providing a solid foundation.
- Citrus - Yuzu and lemon, adding bright, zesty notes.
- Tea - Gyokuro and tencha from Uji, offering depth and earthy tones.
- Spice - Ginger and sansho pepper, delivering warmth and a subtle kick.
- Herbal - Bamboo leaves and regional herbs, giving a fresh, green profile.
- Floral - Kinome and fragrant flowers, imparting a delicate, aromatic touch.
Each group of botanicals is distilled separately to preserve its individual character, and only after distillation are the components carefully blended. This modular method ensures that each botanical’s essence is captured at its peak, resulting in a beautifully balanced and nuanced spirit.
A Lineup of Exquisite Gins
KI NO BI offers a variety of expressions, each with its own distinctive profile:
- KI NO BI Kyoto Dry Gin: The flagship expression with a fresh, aromatic profile, featuring hints of yuzu, ginger, and delicate herbal notes. Smooth, refined, and perfectly balanced, it’s a celebration of Kyoto’s natural beauty.
- KI NO TEA Gin: Infused with gyokuro and tencha teas from Uji, this gin delivers a refined, earthy character with a touch of sweetness. It’s a nod to Japan’s rich tea culture, merging tradition with a contemporary twist.
- KI NO BI Edition K: A unique collaboration with Kilchoman Distillery in Scotland, Edition K is aged in peated whisky casks, giving it a smoky, complex flavor that marries Japanese precision with Scottish boldness.
We currently carry KI NO BI Kyoto Dry Gin, KI NO TEA Gin, and KI NO BI Edition K.
The Heart of Japanese Gin Innovation
KI NO BI Gins are more than just spirits—they’re a tribute to Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and the art of meticulous craftsmanship. The distillery’s dedication to quality and innovation has earned KI NO BI worldwide acclaim, making it one of the most celebrated Japanese craft gins on the market today.
Whether enjoyed neat to appreciate the nuanced botanicals or mixed into a sophisticated cocktail, KI NO BI Gins offer a taste of Kyoto’s spirit and soul. Their harmonious blend of tradition and modernity makes them a must-try for gin enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Final Thoughts
With KI NO BI Gins, each sip is a journey through the seasons and traditions of Kyoto. From the iconic Kyoto Dry Gin to the distinctive Edition K collaboration, these gins deliver a uniquely Japanese experience. Whether you’re enjoying the refined flavors of KI NO TEA or the bold, smoky notes of Edition K, you’re tasting the dedication and passion poured into every bottle.
Cocktail Suggestion: Yuzu Gin Sour
A bright and refreshing cocktail that highlights the citrusy notes of KI NO BI Kyoto Dry Gin.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz KI NO BI Kyoto Dry Gin
- 1 oz yuzu juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- Ice
- Yuzu peel (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Combine gin, yuzu juice, simple syrup, and egg white in a shaker without ice.
- Dry shake vigorously to create foam.
- Add ice and shake again until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a thin slice of yuzu peel.