Nikka Coffey, a popular brand of whisky produced by the Japanese distillery Nikka, has indeed been discontinued. This decision was made in order to ensure the stable and effective conservation of whisky reserves. It is not the first time that Nikka has had to discontinue one of its brands due to increased demand.
In early 2019, Nikka discontinued its Nikka 12 expression and temporarily suspended production of its Nikka Coffey Malt. These decisions were likely made to manage the availability of their whisky products and maintain the quality of their existing reserves.
The discontinuation of Nikka Coffey is disappointing for whisky enthusiasts who have enjoyed this unique expression. The Coffey stills, which are continuous column stills used in the production of this whisky, are known for producing a different style of whisky compared to traditional pot stills. The Coffey stills allow for a higher level of efficiency and consistency in production, resulting in a smooth and approachable whisky.
Nikka Coffey was highly regarded for its fruity and vibrant flavor profile, with notes of tropical fruits, vanilla, and spice. It was often enjoyed neat or in cocktails, showcasing its versatility and appeal to both whisky connoisseurs and casual drinkers.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and appreciate Nikka Coffey whisky. Its distinctive character and smoothness made it a standout in the world of Japanese whisky. It is always unfortunate when a beloved brand or expression is discontinued, as it can be challenging to replace the unique qualities that made it special.
However, it is important to remember that the decision to discontinue a brand is often driven by the need to manage production and maintain the quality and availability of other expressions. Whisky production is a time-consuming process, and distilleries must carefully plan and allocate their resources to meet demand while also ensuring the long-term sustainability of their operations.
While Nikka Coffey may no longer be available, whisky enthusiasts can still explore the wide range of other expressions offered by Nikka and other distilleries. Japanese whisky continues to gain recognition and popularity worldwide, and there are plenty of exceptional options to discover.
Yes, Nikka Coffey has been discontinued by the distillery. This decision was made to prioritize the stable conservation of whisky reserves and manage production demands. While it is unfortunate for fans of the brand, it presents an opportunity to explore other expressions within the world of Japanese whisky.