Whiskey and Coffee – 10 Japan-Inspired Drinks

Get ready to shake up your cocktail game with these ten Japan-inspired whiskey and coffee drinks. We’re blending deep, bold whiskey with aromatic coffee, all while throwing a Japanese twist into the mix. These recipes are not just drinks; they’re a ticket to a flavor-packed journey!

Kyoto Old Fashioned

Imagine the zen of Kyoto gardens distilled into a glass. This cocktail takes the classic Old Fashioned and spins it with a Japanese twist, using locally distilled whiskey and a special coffee-infused syrup. It’s a smooth, contemplative drink that echoes the tranquil spirit of Kyoto’s ancient temples and the subtle complexities of its cultural heritage.

Recipe

• 2 oz Japanese whiskey
• 1/2 oz coffee-infused simple syrup
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Orange peel for garnish

Instructions

1. Stir the whiskey, coffee-infused syrup, and bitters with ice in a mixing glass.
2. Strain into an old-fashioned glass over a large ice cube.
3. Express the orange peel over the drink and drop it in as garnish.

Tokyo Whiskey Sour

This is where the bustling energy of Tokyo meets the classic sour cocktail. Using Japanese whiskey and fresh espresso, this drink captures the dynamic pulse of the city—fast-paced yet perfectly balanced. It’s a vibrant mix that’s as exciting as Tokyo’s neon-lit streets and as refreshing as a walk under the cherry blossoms.

Recipe

• 2 oz Japanese whiskey
• 1 oz espresso
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Ice
• Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake vigorously until well chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Osaka Espresso Martini

Perfect for those who love a good night out, this martini is as lively and vibrant as Osaka’s famous Dotonbori district. Mixing smooth vodka with bold Japanese whiskey and sharp espresso, it’s a cocktail that promises to keep the spirits high and the conversations flowing, much like the bustling nightlife of Osaka.

Recipe

• 1 oz Japanese whiskey
• 1 oz vodka
• 1 oz espresso
• 1/2 oz coffee liqueur

Instructions

1. Combine whiskey, vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
3. Strain into a chilled martini glass.

Hokkaido Irish Coffee

Take a sip and let it transport you to the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido. This drink blends rich Japanese whiskey with Hokkaido’s famous cream and a robust coffee, creating a warm, comforting beverage that’s perfect after a day on the ski slopes or a peaceful evening by the fire.

Recipe

• 1 1/2 oz Japanese whiskey
• 1 oz freshly brewed strong coffee
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• Fresh cream, lightly whipped

Instructions

1. Pour whiskey, coffee, and brown sugar into a pre-warmed glass mug.
2. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Gently float the whipped cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.

Nagano Suntory Coffee Highball

Inspired by the mountainous landscapes of Nagano, this highball is as refreshing as the alpine air. Combining Suntory whiskey with crisp cold brew coffee and topped with sparkling water, it’s a drink that embodies the refreshing and rejuvenating spirit of Nagano’s natural beauty.

Recipe

• 2 oz Suntory whiskey
• 1 oz cold brew coffee
• Sparkling water
• Ice
• Lemon peel for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the whiskey and cold brew coffee.
3. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
4. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.

Hiroshima Coffee Old Fashioned

Hiroshima is known for its resilience and beautiful landscapes, and this drink mirrors that spirit. It enhances the traditional Old Fashioned with a hint of coffee, adding depth and complexity to the whiskey base. Each sip is as enriching as a visit to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park.

Recipe

• 2 oz Japanese whiskey
• 1/2 oz coffee-infused simple syrup
• 2 dashes bitters
• Orange peel for garnish

Instructions

1. Mix whiskey, coffee syrup, and bitters in a mixing glass with ice.
2. Strain over a large cube in an old-fashioned glass.
3. Garnish with an orange peel.

Fukuoka Whiskey Matcha Latte

Fukuoka is not just about vibrant city life; it’s also about serene tea ceremonies. This latte mixes the creamy textures of steamed milk with matcha’s earthy tones and whiskey’s warmth, offering a drink that’s both invigorating and soothing—a true reflection of Fukuoka’s dual nature.

Recipe

• 1 oz Japanese whiskey
• 1 tsp matcha powder
• 1 cup steamed milk
• Honey or sweetener to taste

Instructions

1. Sift matcha powder into a bowl and add a small amount of hot water.
2. Whisk until matcha is dissolved and forms a paste.
3. In a glass, combine whiskey and matcha paste.
4. Top with steamed milk and sweeten as desired.

Okinawa Cold Brew Highball

Okinawa’s laid-back island vibes are perfectly captured in this refreshing highball. Combining smooth whiskey with cold brew coffee and accented by Okinawan brown sugar, this drink is like a cool breeze on a hot beach day—relaxing, refreshing, and utterly delightful.

Recipe

• 2 oz Japanese whiskey
• 1 oz cold brew coffee
• Sparkling water
• Ice
• Slice of lime for garnish

Instructions

1. In a highball glass filled with ice, combine whiskey and cold brew coffee.
2. Top with sparkling water and stir lightly.
3. Garnish with a slice of lime.

Kobe Whiskey Black Iced Coffee

Kobe, known for its luxury and refinement, inspires this sophisticated drink. It combines robust black coffee with smooth Japanese whiskey over ice, offering a cooling yet bold experience that reflects Kobe’s chic urban appeal.

Recipe

• 2 oz Japanese whiskey
• 4 oz black coffee, cooled
• Ice
• Cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour over the whiskey and cooled black coffee.
3. Stir well.
4. Add cream if desired.

Sapporo Coffee Whiskey Smash

This cocktail brings together Sapporo’s winter festivity feel with its vibrant summer gardens. Fresh mint and lemon brighten the strong flavors of coffee and whiskey, creating a smash that’s as lively and refreshing as Sapporo’s famous snow festival, which is exhilarating.

Recipe

• 2 oz Japanese whiskey
• 1 oz strong coffee, cooled
• 1/2 lemon, cut into wedges
• A handful of mint leaves
• 1 tbsp simple syrup
• Ice

Instructions

1. In a shaker, muddle the lemon wedges, mint leaves, and simple syrup.
2. Add whiskey, coffee, and ice; shake well.
3. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass.
4. Garnish with a sprig of mint and lemon twist.

Cheers to an adventurous tasting journey across Japan—one sip at a time!