Caxambu Coffee Gin from the Volcanic Eifel and Brazil
The Caxambu Coffee Gin by Windspiel is a 47 percent potato-based gin, refined with a coffee distillate made from Brazilian Arabica beans. Juniper meets soft coffee notes, spicy and caramel-like. A collaboration between two Eifel-based producers, this is no ordinary gin.
Caxambu Coffee Gin combines two worlds of indulgence: the gin from Windspiel Manufaktur and a fine coffee distillate from the Dauner Kaffeerösterei. The base is their own potato alcohol from the Volcanic Eifel, complemented by a low-acid Arabica roast from Fazenda Caxambu in Brazil. At 47 percent, it is a bold gin that leads juniper and coffee hand in hand. A taste of home and wanderlust in one glass.
Spicy, caramel-like, with a soft coffee note
On the nose, juniper and roasted bean stand side by side; on the palate, it becomes spicy and caramel-like, with a long coffee finish.
The soft note of the light 'Caxambu Mild' roast pairs surprisingly well with the juniper berries, accompanied by lavender, coriander, and a hint of licorice. The gin remains dry, with caramel and roasted aromas in the flavor profile. Ginger root and lemon peel keep it fresh.
The result is a gin that brings together the dark depth of coffee and the clear freshness of juniper. Neither dominates; they complement one another. Take a moment, and you will notice how the roasted aroma and botanicals alternate.
Neat over ice or in an Espresso Martini
Served neat over a large ice cube, the Coffee Gin beautifully showcases juniper and coffee side by side.
It shines in cocktails, serving as a spicy twist in an Espresso Martini or a Gin and Tonic with an orange twist. It pairs well with bold companions: dark chocolate, a piece of tiramisu, or an espresso afterwards. Those who wish to try the clear classic alongside it should reach for the classic Windspiel Dry Gin from the same distillery.
It is a wonderful companion for late in the evening, when coffee might otherwise be too late. Here, it is perfectly acceptable. If you like it classic, mix it with tonic water and drop a coffee bean into the glass. If you prefer it opulent, shake it until creamy.
Two Eifel producers, one year of tinkering
Behind Caxambu is Windspiel Manufaktur, which distilled Germany’s first gin from potatoes grown in volcanic soil.
Sandra Wimmeler and Denis Lönnendonker founded their distillery in 2014 in the quiet Volcanic Eifel. For the Coffee Gin, they teamed up with the Dauner Kaffeerösterei, as both share a commitment to high-quality raw ingredients. The team spent about a year tinkering to achieve the right balance before the gin was launched in 2021.
The name Windspiel dates back to Frederick the Great, his 1746 potato decree, and his beloved Windspiel (greyhound) dogs. Caxambu is available in a 0.5-liter bottle. In the Windspiel Manufaktur range, you will also find the fruity Pink Grapefruit Gin and non-alcoholic alternatives. Hats off.
In an Espresso Martini, it replaces the vodka
In a tumbler, it is best enjoyed neat and well-chilled, with a large ice cube and an orange twist. In an Espresso Martini, it replaces classic vodka, giving the drink a spicy depth. Once opened, it keeps for many months if stored cool and dark; its robust 47 percent alcohol content stands it in good stead. Alongside a piece of dark chocolate, it becomes a quiet little celebration for late at night.