Roku Gin Utilizes New Botanicals in its Unique Expression
Justin Lam — May 8, 2018 — Lifestyle
References: suntory.co.jp & uncrate
Roku Gin is the newest gin made by internationally known Suntory, who is perhaps best known for its quality whiskey collection. Its name, Roku, comes from the Japenese word for six and was chosen to highlight the six Japanese botanicals used in the spirit. Those six botanicals include cherry blossom, cherry leaves, green tea, refined green tea, yuzu and Japanese pepper. These unique botanicals are blended with the traditional botanicals used in gin and work to create a distinct flavor profile unseen in most expressions.
While Roku Gin cannot be legally defined within the gin space, it has been described as a "contemporary," or "New American" gin. Because of this, the expression does not need to rely solely on juniper and can better utilize its unique composition. The nose offers a burst of yuzu before being followed by buttery pastries and walnuts. The palate offers up an abundance of citrus but is joined by butter, toffee and hints of juniper. The finish of Roku Gin finds a small bit of spice and ends on a clean note.
While Roku Gin cannot be legally defined within the gin space, it has been described as a "contemporary," or "New American" gin. Because of this, the expression does not need to rely solely on juniper and can better utilize its unique composition. The nose offers a burst of yuzu before being followed by buttery pastries and walnuts. The palate offers up an abundance of citrus but is joined by butter, toffee and hints of juniper. The finish of Roku Gin finds a small bit of spice and ends on a clean note.
Trend Themes
1. Japanese-inspired Gins - Opportunity for creating gins that incorporate unique Japanese botanicals to offer a distinct flavor profile.
2. Contemporary Gins - Disruptive innovation opportunity to redefine the gin category by leveraging non-traditional botanicals.
3. New American Gins - Exploring new expressions of gin that go beyond the traditional juniper-forward profile.
Industry Implications
1. Craft Distilleries - Craft distilleries can leverage the trend of Japanese-inspired gins to offer unique and innovative spirits.
2. Hospitality and Mixology - Opportunity for bars and restaurants to incorporate Japanese-inspired gins into their cocktail menus and offer a novel drinking experience.
3. Alcoholic Beverage Industry - Innovation potential for alcoholic beverage brands to introduce contemporary and New American gins to appeal to a wider range of consumers.
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