The summer cocktail of the year - Kiyoko Yuzu

At Whisky.dk we think the better the ingredients in your drinks, the better the drink. Kiyoko Yuzu Aperitif is a Japanese cocktail gem that unites authentic junmai sake with freshly pressed yuzu juice, a citrus fruit known for its intense aroma and elegant tartness. The result is a lightly sweet, crisp, refreshing flavour profile that makes Kiyoko the obvious choice if you are after a versatile, low-alcohol base for modern cocktails with a Japanese twist.

This exclusive aperitif is made on the island of Honshu, where the yuzu fruit grows under optimal conditions with large temperature swings and plenty of sunlight. Every fruit is hand-picked and pressed immediately to preserve the natural freshness. The pure juice is blended with junmai sake brewed from Gohyakumangoku rice and the famous Miyamizu water from Mount Rokkō, a combination that creates an aromatic, lively base for cocktails.

Kiyoko is ideal for classic and creative drinks alike. Here are five cocktail ideas to get you going:

Kiyoko Spritz
8 cl Kiyoko,
6 cl prosecco,
ice and citrus or mint.

This Japanese take on the classic spritz is a tribute to the lightness of summer. Kiyoko's fresh yuzu notes dance elegantly with the fine bubbles of the prosecco and create a crisp, citrus-driven cocktail that is both refreshing and sophisticated. Served in a large wine glass with ice and garnished with a slice of orange or a sprig of mint, it is perfect for everything from aperitivo on the terrace to a party.

Yuzu & tonic
6 cl Kiyoko,
10 cl tonic water,
dried citrus.

A low-alcohol alternative to the classic gin & tonic, where Kiyoko's natural yuzu freshness gets to shine. The lightly bitter tonic brings out the complexity of the citrus and creates an elegant, aromatic drink ideal as an aperitif or with light dishes. Serve in a highball glass with plenty of ice and a slice of dried citrus for an extra visual lift.

Kyoto Sour
4 cl Kiyoko,
2 cl lemon juice,
1 cl honey syrup.

A Japanese-inspired sour where the acidity of the yuzu is balanced by the soft sweetness of the honey. The result is a round, harmonious cocktail with depth and character. Shake with ice and serve in a low glass with lemon peel as garnish, perfect for anyone who loves classic sours with an exotic twist.

Tokyo Highball
4 cl Kiyoko,
10 cl sparkling water or tonic,
lime or lemon.

A light, bubbling long drink that lets Kiyoko's yuzu notes shine in all their simplicity. Sparkling water gives a clean, crisp experience, while tonic adds a light bitterness. Serve ice cold in a tall glass with citrus garnish, ideal for warm days, sushi or as an elegant low-alcohol option.

Saketini Twist
Equal parts Kiyoko and dry gin, stirred with ice and served in a martini glass.

A sophisticated, aromatic cocktail where the perfumed tartness of the yuzu meets the herbal stamp of the gin. This twist on the classic martini is both elegant and surprising, perfect as a welcome drink or for an evening of Japanese-inspired food.

Kiyoko is more than an aperitif. It is a tasting experience that brings Japanese finesse and natural citrus freshness into your glass. Whether you go for classic spritz variations, exotic highballs or creative sours, Kiyoko is a new favourite in the home bar.

The right kit makes the difference - see our cocktail sets here
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