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FAQ
If you’re looking for the perfect gin that bridges tradition with innovation, look no further than Roku Gin. Created by the House of Suntory in Japan, Roku Gin distills with six uniquely Japanese botanicals, including sakura flower, yuzu peel, sencha tea, gyokuro tea, sansho pepper, and sakura leaf. Fun fact: the name “Roku” is Japanese for “six.”
In this Roku Gin review, we’ll explore Suntory’s Osaka distillery, share Roku’s unique tasting notes, and show how it works in cocktails. We’ll also compare it to other premium gins, suggest the best ways to enjoy it, and help you decide if it makes a great gift for any gin lover.
Overview of Our Roku Gin Review
Want the highlights of our Roku Gin review? Here’s what you need to know:
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Classification: Gin
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Tasting Notes: Bright citrus, floral sakura, green tea, peppery spice, and crisp juniper
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Distillery: Suntory’s Osaka Distillery, Japan
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Proof: 86 proof (43% ABV)
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Pros: Beautifully balanced flavors, distinct Japanese botanicals, great for cocktails and neat sipping, elegant bottle design that will look good on anyone’s shelf.
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Cons: May be too complex for those who prefer a traditional London Dry profile, delicate notes can get lost in overly sweet mixer
What Is Roku Gin?
Roku Gin is a premium Japanese Gin made by the House of Suntory, famous worldwide for its whisky mastery.
Launched in 2017, the gin captures the essence of “Shun,” the Japanese art of savoring seasonal flavors at their peak. Practicing this art entails celebrating each season with six carefully selected botanicals, harvested at the moment they’re freshest. This creates a truly unique tasting experience.
Roku Gin pours crystal clear but bursts with a lively mix of aromas and flavors, from delicate sakura blossoms and green tea to juniper and coriander seed. Its Japanese roots are unmistakable, yet it’s approachable for gin lovers worldwide. Perfect in a classic gin and tonic, it also brings citrus, floral, and spice notes that elevate a Negroni or Martini to a whole new level.
And let’s not forget the bottle, which is a work of art in itself. Its hexagonal shape features delicate botanical illustrations, turning every pour into a mini art moment and perfectly reflecting Suntory’s love for beauty in the details.
What Is the Alcohol Content of Roku Gin?
This liquor has an alcohol content of 43% ABV (86 proof).
Flavor Review: What Does Roku Gin Taste Like?
Roku Gin opens with a burst of zesty yuzu peel, followed by the gentle floral whispers of sakura and a grounded, earthy touch from sencha and gyokuro teas. It’s a playful dance of bright citrus and subtle depth that keeps every sip interesting.
But what really sets Roku apart from other gins is its finish. The sansho pepper has a subtle yet delightful spiciness to it, including hints of peppercorn and a slight tingling sensation that lingers on your tongue.
This symphony of flavors concludes with the strong notes of juniper that guarantee that the spirit remains firmly within gin tradition, no matter how innovative it gets.
Unlike many Western gins that lean heavily on juniper or citrus, Roku brings in a whole new layer of botanicals with its distinctly Japanese approach.
How Should You Drink Roku Gin?
You can drink Roku Gin a number of ways, but here are some of our top preferences:
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Neat or on the Rocks: Sipping Roku Gin neat allows you to truly appreciate the vast spectrum of flavors in this spirit.
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Gin & Tonic: One of the most popular ways to enjoy Roku is in a gin and tonic with thin slices of ginger for garnishing.
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Cocktails: You can use Roku in classic cocktails such as the Martini, Negroni, or Tom Collins without clashing with other ingredients.
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Food Pairings: Our favorite recommendations are light, delicate dishes such as sushi, sashimi, grilled fish, or fresh salads.
Is Roku Good Gin?
Roku Gin is undoubtedly an excellent gin that has added Japanese botanicals into our traditional gin framework. The end result is a spirit with many layers, complex enough to sip on its own and versatile enough to mix in our favorite cocktails.
It provides a wonderful experience for both gin enthusiasts who want to try something new and casual drinkers who want an approachable gin.
Roku Gin VS. Hendrick’s Gin
Hendrick’s Gin from Scotland is famous for its infusion of cucumber and rose, whereas Roku leans more towards Japanese botanicals like yuzu and green tea.
Both gins are excellent in quality and versatility, each bringing its own unique character to the glass. It ultimately depends on the kind of drinking experience you’re going for: choose Hendrick’s for a lighter, floral one and Roku for layered complexity and a bit of adventure!
Is Roku Gin a Good Gift?
You already know the answer! On top of its unique taste, every sip delivers a playful mix of citrus, floral, and spice that keeps your taste buds guessing and your cocktails lively.
This is a bottle that will catch the eye of both gin aficionados and casual sippers. Every detail reflects the thought and care behind it, inviting you to explore and enjoy what’s inside. With a Flaviar Black membership, you can also enjoy a discount and discover limited edition releases.
Where Can You Buy Roku Gin?
Roku Gin is available on multiple online platforms, including Flaviar. You’ll also find it in many well-stocked liquor stores, high-end supermarkets, cocktail bars, and restaurants.
How Much Does Roku Gin Cost?
A 750ml bottle of Suntory Roku Gin costs a little under $30, a very competitive price for premium gin. You can get a serving at bars and restaurants for around $10 to $15.
More Expert Liquor Reviews
If you’re looking for more expert reviews, we recommend checking out our Redbreast Lustau review and Jameson Black Barrel review.
Roku Gin Review Verdict: Is It Worth Trying?
Our verdict? Roku Gin is absolutely worth a taste! It’s not every day you see a premium gin that blends in Japanese botanicals into our traditional gin packaged with a striking bottle design. This flagship gin from Suntory is full of character and flair. Grab a bottle and let it bring some magic to your next drink.
