Oka Japanese Gin is a bold, flavorful gin distilled at the Tsutsumi Distillery in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. It uses a 100% rice base and a botanical mix that emphasizes juniper (both Macedonian and Himalayan), seasonal citrus (yuzu, sudachi, Satsuma mandarin), and young ginger. At 43% ABV, it delivers a rich, spicy, citrus-bright gin that works both in classic gin cocktails and as a more expressive gin to sip neat or over ice.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Feature Detail Distillery / Producer Tsutsumi Distillery, Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan. Spirit Base 100% rice neutral spirit (rather than grain) adding a softer, smoother mouthfeel. Number of Distillations Distilled six times in a copper-lined stainless steel pot still. Botanical additions are made in the final distillation. ABV / Proof 43% ABV. Bottle Size 900 ml larger than the typical 700 or 750 ml, offering value.

Flavor / Tasting Profile

Sensory Element Notes Nose / Aroma Bright citrus: yuzu and mandarin; bold juniper presence (piney and resinous); hints of sansho peppercorn, ginger, and orange oil. Palate / Taste Spicy juniper (piney), earthy ginger root; citrus zest (lime, orange, mandarin); clean rice sweetness that softens the botanicals; herbal pepper finish. Finish Clean, moderately long; lingering citrus and spice, with juniper and ginger kicking in; rice base adds a smooth, lightly sweet final note.

Key Specs / Identity

Spec Detail Type / Style Japanese Dry Gin (bold-juniper style) Botanicals Highlighted Macedonian & Himalayan juniper; citrus (seasonal Japanese citrus: yuzu, sudachi, mandarin); ginger; orris root; rotating seasonal citrus. Distillation Style Multi-distilled (6), botanicals added in final run to preserve aromatic intensity.

Strengths & What Makes It Stand Out

• Very good balance between juniper gnar and citrus & spice: clear traditional gin backbone but with Japanese flair.

• The rice base contributes to smoothness and a softer palette which helps the botanicals shine rather than clash.

• 900 ml bottle offers more volume for price: good value for cocktail bars or those who use gin often.

• Distinct spicy garnish options: sansho pepper, fresh citrus peel, etc., interact nicely with its flavor profile.

Use & Pairing Suggestions

• Classic Gin & Tonic: Use a high-quality tonic; garnish with a twist of yuzu or mandarin peel to echo the citrus in the gin.

• Gin Martini: With olive or lemon twist; the rice base gives a clean mouthfeel that works well in stirred drinks.

• Negroni / Gin Negroni / Negroni variation: Use the gin for extra juniper + citrus bright kicks.

• Gin Gimlet: Lime juice + simple syrup to highlight citrus & ginger.

• Pairings: Pairs with light grilled seafood (like yuzu soy glazed fish), sashimi, citrus dishes, or snacks with ginger / pepper flavors.