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Tag: gin

  • Suntory Elevates Craft Gin Roku at Innovative Concept Shop in Tokyo

    Suntory Elevates Craft Gin Roku at Innovative Concept Shop in Tokyo

    Tokyo is the latest stage for Suntory Holdings, as the renowned beverage maker unveils a concept shop dedicated to its handcrafted gin, Roku. This innovative move aims not only to promote the exquisite flavors of Japanese craft gin but also to reflect Suntory’s commitment to enhancing its spirits production capabilities.

    Roku, which burst onto the scene in 2017, has quickly gained a global following. Available in around 60 countries, a remarkable 90% of its sales are generated from international markets. This speaks volumes about the growing appreciation for craft spirits worldwide, especially those with a distinctly Japanese twist.

    As Suntory ramps up its investment in production capacity, it’s clear that the company is not just mixing drinks; it’s crafting a culture around them. Whether you’re an aficionado of fine spirits or just starting on your tasting journey, the world of Roku is one you won’t want to miss.

    Given the brand’s burgeoning appeal, it’s intriguing to ponder — can gin really become the new sake? In the land of the rising sun, traditions are always at play, but there’s room for something new to shine.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of Suntory’s concept shop?
    The concept shop aims to boost awareness of its Japanese craft gin, Roku, while showcasing Suntory’s commitment to enhancing its spirits production capacity.

    When was Roku launched and how widely is it sold?
    Roku was launched in 2017 and is currently sold in approximately 60 countries, with around 90% of its sales coming from markets outside Japan.

    Is there a growing trend towards craft spirits in Japan?
    Absolutely! The global fascination with craft spirits, especially those that carry a unique cultural identity like Roku, indicates a thriving trend in the market.

  • Asahi Beverages acquires South Australia’s Never Never gin brand

    Asahi Beverages acquires South Australia’s Never Never gin brand

    Asahi Beverages has purchased Never Never, a premium distillery in South Australia’s McLaren Vale region.

    The acquisition is expected to help the distillery expand its reach, offer better support and offerings for existing customers and consumers, and help grow the Australian gin market.

    Never Never was established in 2016 by three friends – George Georgiadis, Tim Boast, and Sean Baxter – who began distilling gin from an Adelaide shed. Since then, the company has gained popularity among bartenders and gin enthusiasts with its award-winning gins, such as Triple Juniper and Oyster Shell.

    Georgiadis, MD and co-founder of Never Never, said the partnership would allow the brand to realise its vision of growing in the country’s gin market.

    “Our values have been crucial in building our brand and align incredibly strongly with the values and culture of Asahi Beverages,” he added.

    Never Never’s three co-founders will remain in their roles and continue to oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining the brand’s unique identity.

    “Adding a high-quality, Australian-made gin to our range plugs an important gap in our offering and complements our leading multi-beverage portfolio,” added Danny Celoni, CEO of Carlton & United Breweries (CUB), Asahi’s alcohol division.

    “We can’t wait to start offering this product to our customers and through our distribution network to help this internationally-recognised Aussie gin achieve the scale it deserves.”

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  • Ukiyo Spirits unveils Tokyo Dry Gin

    Ukiyo Spirits unveils Tokyo Dry Gin

    Drinkslogy Kirker Greer subsidiary Ukiyo Spirits has launched a new small-batch classic dry gin that celebrates Japanese flavours and fragrances.

    The range includes three variants: Ukiyo Tokyo Dry Gin, Ukiyo Blossom Gin , and Ukiyo Yuzu (citrus dry gin). Ukiyo Tokyo Dry Gin will be offered to on- and off-trade merchants in Australia, the UK and the Netherlands beginning next month.

    According to the company, the products are traditionally distilled and made using high-quality Japanese ingredients. The components include indigenous rice farmed in the surrounding regions as well as five native Japanese botanicals: yuzu peel, mikan peel, sakura flower, sakura leaf, and sansho pepper.

    “These carefully chosen ingredients combine to express the diverse terroir and tastes of Japan – resulting in an elegant and delicately aromatic classic dry gin offering warm and well-balanced citrus and spice notes, and a smooth finish,” said Ali Pickering, chief marketing officer at DKG.

    “Tokyo Dry Gin is beautifully presented in Ukiyo’s iconic two–colour graduated bottle, a world-first design offering a stylish and uniquely Japanese aesthetic that reflects Ukiyo’s home by mirroring the mountains and oceans of Japan.”

    The range is aimed at city livers aged 25 to 50 who enjoy travelling and visiting high-end cocktail bars.

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  • Hendrick’s unveils latest addition to its Cabinet of Curiosities series

    Hendrick’s unveils latest addition to its Cabinet of Curiosities series

    Hendrick’s Gin has introduced its latest creation from the Cabinet of Curiosities series, Flora Adora.

    The Cabinet of Curiosities is the brand’s series of limited-edition gin releases known for their unique botanical combinations and unconventional flavors.

    Crafted at the Hendrick’s Gin Palace in Scotland, the new gin departs from traditional profiles, featuring ingredients like juniper and coriander combined with cucumber and rose to deliver a “refreshing and balanced taste experience”.

    “To welcome a magical and immersive experience, try a tantalizing floral fusion with the Flora Adora Wildgarden Cup,” suggests James McRae, brand ambassador for Hendrick’s Gin.

    “A balanced medley of fresh mint, cooling cucumber, and juicy raspberries lengthened with a refreshing lemon soda.”

    Hendrick’s Flora Adora is available for an RRP of $86 in Dan Murphy’s BWS, Liquorland and First Choice stores nationwide.

  • Ampersand Projects launches new purple gin soda

    Ampersand Projects launches new purple gin soda

    Victoria-based spirit company Ampersand Projects has expanded its ready-to-drink gin offerings with a new product dubbed ‘Purple Gin Soda &’.

    The launch of Purple Gin Soda & comes after the release of its Pink Gin Soda & in 2020. Its alcohol level is at 6 percent. The packaging features a minimalist purple colour theme.

    The company said the new gin line combines locally distilled gin with “bright and vibrant” blackcurrant flavors and sparkling soda water.

    Purple Gin Soda & is sugar-free, carb-free, and gluten-free.

    The new Purple Gin Soda & is priced at $26.99 for a 4-pack and is available to purchase at BWS, Dan Murphy’s, and independent bottle shops around Australia.

    Ampersand Projects was founded in 2018 in NSW by Alex Bottomley and Marcus Kellett. The company was nominated for the Startup Award at the Sydney Young Entrepreneur Awards 2019.

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  • Hendrick’s Gin releases new limited-edition Neptunia Gin

    Hendrick’s Gin releases new limited-edition Neptunia Gin

    Internationally celebrated and enjoyed, Hendrick’s Gin’s unique blend of botanicals and exquisite distillation have won them global recognition and a place on the table at most households. Hailing all the way from Scotland, their bright flavour and floral aroma is no stranger to us here as well.

    For fans of this refreshing spirit, today marks an exciting date – fresh out of their artisanal Cabinet of Curiosities is the latest limited release Neptunia Gin.

    Inspired by the beaches of southwest Scotland and the melody they sing as waves hit the shore, the Neptunia Gin is a curious ode to the sea

    Still marked by the distinct rose and cucumber notes of Hendrick’s gin, it presents added depth and flavour with a blend of coastal botanicals that showcase the sensations of being by the open waters, before culminating in a smooth citrus finish.

    Light and refreshing, it’s a perfect thirst-quencher on hot days. Try a Neptunia Fizz – simple mix of Neptunia gin, lime juice, syrup, and soda – with freshly shucked oysters for that full marine experience.

    Owing its magic to the sea, Hendrick’s Neptunia is also working with charity partner Project Seagrass, to raise awareness and funds that go towards saving seagrass meadows and educating the public about the vital role they play in the marine ecosystem.

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  • Hendrick’s super-premium premixed cocktail helps Covid-19 hit bar trade

    Hendrick’s super-premium premixed cocktail helps Covid-19 hit bar trade

    For the first year on the market, William Grant & Sons will donate $1 from each bottle sold to the company’s StandFast fund that supports the hospitality industry struggling through Covid-19 trading restrictions.

    The range comprises Monkey Shoulder Lazy Old Fashioned, Reyka Rhubarb Cosmopolitan, Glenfiddich Scotch Manhattan and the Gin Martini.

    Teams from each of the five participating bars developed three variations of Hendrick’s Martini using ingredients often unique to their location. Gracie, Hendrick’s master distiller together with global ambassador Ally Martin, drew from the best of the different flavour elements that were presented and developed the Batch & Bottle Hendrick’s Gin Martini, seeking feedback from the bars at every step.

    “I worked closely with some of the very best martini-making bars in the world, taking inspiration from what they do and translating it into something you can easily pour at home that’s fresh, floral, round and smooth like Hendrick’s,” said Gracie. “Each bar had a wildly different take on what made the perfect martini. It sent me down a rabbit hole of flavour discovery, experimenting endlessly with different ingredients and flavour combinations.”

    To create the final martini, each bar worked alongside Gracie and Martin to hone and develop the recipe with ingredients that inspired them.

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  • Gordon’s launches alcohol-free gin option in Australia

    Gordon’s launches alcohol-free gin option in Australia

    British gin manufacturer Gordon’s has introduced its first alcohol-free product in Australia, as gin consumption soars across the nation – in tandem with surging interest in non-alcoholic drinks.

    Similar to the brand’s signature London Dry Gin, Gordon’s 0.0% doesn’t compromise on flavor and is created by distilling the same botanicals, the brand says.

    “We believe this alcohol-free option allows Gordon’s to be enjoyed on a bigger breadth of occasions, without having to compromise,” said Madeleine Stockwell, marketing manager at Gordon’s.

    “Our expert innovation team at Gordon’s has combined years of expertise and historic gin distilling knowledge to create a credible alcohol-free experience,” said Chris Moschos, innovation marketing manager at Diageo.

    Gordon’s 0.0% is available nationwide in a 330ml ready-to-drink bottle – premixed with tonic – for $14.50 RRP, along with a 700ml spirit bottle at $34.99 RRP.