Roku Craft Gin, Japan

Crafted with the spirit of Japan’s seasons in every sip, Roku Japanese Craft Gin is a refined, contemporary expression of tradition and botanical artistry. Distilled by the House of Suntory, this gin pays homage to the Japanese concept of shun—a celebration of ingredients harvested at their seasonal peak. Roku, which means “six” in Japanese, highlights six uniquely Japanese botanicals in its meticulous composition, offering a multi-layered yet harmonious experience that is both exotic and elegant.

Product Details:

• Style: Contemporary Japanese Craft Gin
• ABV: 47.6%
• Origin: Japan
• Base Spirit: Wheat
• Known Botanicals: Juniper, Yuzu Peel, Sakura Flower, Sakura Leaf, Sencha Tea, Gyokuro Tea, Sansho Pepper, Peach, Raspberry, Rose
• Producer: House of Suntory

Sensory Description:

Opening with an aromatic bouquet of cherry blossom and green tea, the nose of Roku is unmistakably floral and inviting. On the palate, the gin reveals a complex but harmonious flavor profile—traditional juniper at the base, accented by vibrant yuzu citrus, creamy green tea, and soft floral notes from sakura and rose. The mouthfeel is smooth and silky, leading to a crisp, spicy finish highlighted by sansho pepper, delivering a delicately bold conclusion to each sip.

Awards & Accolades:

• Double Gold – 2024, NZ Spirits Awards
• Gold – 2022, San Francisco World Spirits Competition
• Silver – 2024, International Wine & Spirit Competition
• Silver – 2023, Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition
• Silver – 2023 & 2024, The Juniper NZ Gin Awards
• Silver – 2023, San Francisco World Spirits Competition
• Silver – 2023, International Spirits Challenge (Tasting Awards)
• Bronze – 2023, International Spirits Challenge (Tasting Awards)
• Bronze – 2024, The Juniper NZ Gin Awards
• Tried & True – 2022, Ultimate Beverage Challenge

Distiller's Background:

The House of Suntory is one of Japan’s most revered spirits producers, founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii. Driven by a dream to create a uniquely Japanese spirit experience, Suntory embodies a deep connection to nature, craftsmanship, and heritage. Today, the House of Suntory produces globally celebrated spirits such as Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki, and Roku, all rooted in the philosophy of monozukuri—the art of meticulous creation. With Roku Gin, Suntory brings a refined, seasonal Japanese elegance to the world of gin.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Roku Gin in a chilled gin and tonic garnished with ginger or yuzu peel to elevate its vibrant citrus and floral notes. It also shines in a classic Martini or a highball with soda water. For optimal flavor, enjoy Roku at a serving temperature of 45–50°F. Whether toasting to a season or savoring a quiet moment, Roku Gin offers a deeply sensory journey through Japan’s four seasons.