KI NO BI Kyoto Dry Gin launches in Australia

The Kyoto Distillery has announced the Australian launch of its multi-award-winning KI NO BI Kyoto Dry Gin.

Japan’s first dedicated artisan gin distillery and ICONS OF GIN’s Craft Distiller of the Year 2019 has created the gin in a dry style with a distinct Japanese accent.

The distillery was founded by industry veterans Marcin Miller and David Croll in 2015 with the intention of creating the finest gin possible with a focus on Japanese botanicals. KI NO BI Kyoto Dry Gin launched in the Japanese market in October 2016, creating a new category for Japanese premium gins, and is now exported to 20 countries around the world.

Head distiller Alex Davies and his team use the soft waters of Fushimi, famed for centuries for the highest quality sake production, and a selection of locally-grown ingredients, such as yellow yuzu from the north, hinoki chips (Japanese cypress), bamboo, ginger, gyokuro tea from the legendary Uji region and green sanshō (Japanese peppercorn).

The concept of ‘konwa’ is key to KI NO BI; combining and creating harmony. Botanicals are separated into six different categories (base, citrus, tea, herbal, spice and floral), each category is then steeped in rice spirit before being distilled individually. The distillates are then blended together before being left to marry, which allows the disparate flavours to harmonise.

“There are many very good gins out there but not all speak of their place of origin," Croll said. "We wanted to draw inspiration as well as ingredients from Kyoto to establish authentic, local roots. We seek to partner with both Kyoto’s cultural and agricultural assets.”

Vanguard Luxury Brands will distribute the gin in Australia. Founder and Managing Director James France added: “We’re really excited to add this remarkable gin to our portfolio. In a heavily-populated gin market, KI NO BI really stands out for its unique production processes, provenance and exceptional quality. These are backed up by its impressive awards on the world stage. We look forward to building this brand in Australia.”

KI NO BI gin is available now from Vanguard Luxury Brands. Call 1300 DRINKS or visit www.vanguardluxurybrands.com