Roku Gin

Part 8 of a Bourbon Snob's Gin Exploration Previous: The Botanist Next: Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, January 9, 2025 >>>~~~~~~~~~~<<< My experience with gin is limited; it's been ages since my last try. I'm not very familiar with the terminology or flavor profiles commonly used for gin. However, we're progressing. Some might say we're holding out hope. This is someone accustomed to bourbon attempting to appreciate gin. A big thank you to a friend for the sample! >>>~~~~~~~~~~<<< Smells of lemon, vanilla, cream, and a hint of pine. The palate offers tangerine, lemon, orange peel, and more vanilla. The finish features orange peel and additional vanilla. This is another excellent gin. For me, the key is avoiding excessively sweet or floral characteristics. This one succeeds admirably in the fruity and briny realm, almost satisfying the same craving as a high-quality, vibrant rye whiskey.

It meets expectations; this brand shows promise, and with the heritage of Japanese distillers, excellent versions could emerge. Robust juniper and a distinct green character from Japanese teas dominate, with mild bitterness, but the pepper is most prominent. Well-balanced. It meets expectations; this brand shows promise, and with the heritage of Japanese distillers, excellent versions could emerge. Robust juniper and a distinct green character from Japanese teas dominate, with mild bitterness, but the pepper is most prominent. Well-balanced.

Predominantly fresh, tart citrus, accompanied by a spice presence, tasting more balanced than its aroma suggests, likely due to the tea. Tonic water somewhat dulls the spices, leaving only a hint of pepper. A slight bitterness and a somewhat unusual spicy aftertaste appear and fade, deserving mention but not significantly affecting the overall experience. Regularly priced, though I've previously acquired it for as low as 20 EUR per bottle.

85 Nose: Very citrusy, floral, with strong flavors 21 Palate: Citrusy, slightly sharp alcohol, peppery, intense, subtly alcoholic 21 Finish: Long, warming, and slightly alcoholic. Pepper in the aftertaste, herbaceousness 22 Body: Very intense, warmly alcoholic, very nice flavor, just a bit too much alcohol, better in a G&T than on its own, otherwise too intense 21

This gin boasts six Japanese botanicals, prominently featuring yuzu and cherry blossoms. It's a truly contemporary gin. I strongly suggest making your gin and tonics with ginger slices, just like the Suntory site suggests. The bottle is gorgeous, with each of the six botanicals depicted on its different sides. I'll absolutely buy it again.

Aroma: Citrus zest, sharp spice, and a hint of mineral beach. Taste: Earthy notes, more spice, greens, and brine. Aftertaste: Fiery, vegetal, herbaceous, citrus rind, and a touch of bitterness. Fantastic spirit for any mixed drink, particularly a dirty martini. Delightfully intricate but not overwhelming.