Hamburg-based distillery Koyi Micro Spirits is experiencing an overwhelming surge in customer traffic to its retail locations in the Wellingsbüttel district, following a recent appearance on the German television indicate “Die Höhle der Löwen” (The Lion’s Den), according to reports.
Founders Yuka Suzuki, 52, and Dr. Hauke Günther, 46, presented their “Micro Spirits” concept – highly concentrated gin and rum distillates requiring only a few drops to create a full-strength drink – to the panel of investors on the program. The company sought 120,000 euros for a 10 percent stake in the business, according to t-online.de.
Koyi Micro Spirits’ products promise the flavor of traditional spirits with up to 90 percent less alcohol, aiming to eliminate the negative aftereffects of excessive drinking. Dr. Günther, a biologist, developed a patented distillation process to maximize aroma while minimizing alcohol content, as detailed on the company’s website.
The distillery, which has twice been awarded “World’s Best Gin,” offers a product based on the “8-to-1 principle,” meaning eight “Koyi” drinks contain the equivalent alcohol of a single standard long drink. The company’s website states that only a few drops of the concentrate are needed per drink.
While details of the investment outcome were not immediately available, reports indicate a deal with investor Janna Ensthaler was initially reached, though its current status remains uncertain. Despite the initial agreement, the future of the investment is currently unclear, according to FHM Online.
The influx of customers to Koyi Micro Spirits’ shops has been described as “insane” by sources close to the company, with the stores reportedly “overrun” with shoppers eager to purchase the product. Abendblatt.de reported the surge in demand on March 3, 2026.
