FAQ: Suntory Roku Japanese Craft Gin
1. What is Suntory Roku Japanese Craft Gin?
Suntory Roku is a premium gin crafted in Japan by Suntory, a company known for its rich heritage in spirits. This gin is distinctively made using six unique Japanese botanicals, combined with traditional gin ingredients to create a balanced and aromatic spirit.
2. What are the key botanicals in Suntory Roku Japanese Craft Gin?
Roku features six essential Japanese botanicals: Sakura (cherry blossom), Yuzu (a citrus fruit), Sencha (green tea), Gyokuro (a high-grade green tea), Sansho pepper, and traditional gin botanicals like juniper. This unique blend gives it a refreshing and complex flavor profile.
3. How does Suntory Roku Gin differ from other gins?
Unlike many other gins that rely primarily on juniper, Roku emphasizes the use of Japanese botanicals, resulting in a more nuanced flavor. The inclusion of ingredients like yuzu and sakura offers a distinct aromatic quality that sets it apart from conventional gins.
4. What is the best way to enjoy Suntory Roku Gin?
Suntory Roku Gin shines in a variety of cocktails, but it is particularly enjoyable in a classic gin and tonic. Serve it with high-quality tonic water, a slice of yuzu or grapefruit, and a sprig of rosemary for an elevated experience. It can also be enjoyed neat or on the rocks.
5. Is Suntory Roku Gin suitable for cocktails?
Absolutely. Suntory Roku Gin is versatile and works well in a wide range of cocktails, from traditional gin and tonics to modern mixology. Its unique flavor profile enhances both classic and creative drinks.
6. What is the alcohol content of Suntory Roku Gin?
Suntory Roku Japanese Craft Gin has an alcohol content of 43% ABV (86 proof), giving it a robust character while maintaining smoothness.
7. Where can I buy Suntory Roku Japanese Craft Gin?
Suntory Roku Japanese Craft Gin is widely available at liquor stores, both physical and online. It’s also featured in many bars and restaurants, especially those with a focus on craft cocktails or Japanese spirits.
8. How should Suntory Roku Gin be stored?
To maintain its quality, store Suntory Roku Gin in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Once opened, it is best consumed within a year for optimal freshness.
9. Can Suntory Roku Gin be used in food recipes?
Definitely! Suntory Roku Gin can be used in cooking and baking to add a unique depth of flavor. Consider using it in marinades, sauces, or even desserts like gin-infused sorbet for an adventurous twist.
Feel free to explore the world of Suntory Roku Japanese Craft Gin, and discover the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. Cheers!
This expression is made using a selection of botanicals, including six Japanese botanicals that provide a whistle-stop tour of the four seasons. These include sakura leaf and sakura flower for spring, sencha tea and gyokuro tea for summer, sansho pepper for autumn and yuzu peel for winter. Traditional gin botanicals also featured include the likes of juniper, orange peel, lemon peel, coriander and cinnamon, among others.
The first gin released by Suntory, the name “Roku” is Japanese for “Six” which refers to the six Japanese botanicals used. Sakura flower (cherry blossoms), sakura leaf (cherry leaf), sencha tea (green tea), Gyokuro tea (refined green tea), sanshō pepper, and yuzu are utilized along with eight other traditional gin botanicals. The gin is distilled using a selection of different pot stills. The label is printed with Japanese washi paper.
Roku Gin was released in Japan in July 2017, and is available in the UK, Germany, and Australia. As of October 2018, Roku is available in the US. On the nose, the initial burst of yuzu is followed closely by buttery pastries and walnuts. Roku eases smoothly on to the palate delivering abundant citrus, butter, toffee, and a hint of juniper, which is joined by pepper to bring a satisfying, spicy finish. A very worthy “protagonist” of the Japanese gin movement.
