Spring is a time for renewal, and with it comes the reintroduction of the Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition for 2025. The timely release embraces Japan’s cherished cherry blossom season as The House of Suntory bridges tradition and innovation with a unique sensory experience. At the heart of the Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition is the Japanese philosophy of shun, where ingredients are enjoyed at their peak. Roku, which means six, is highlighted in the bottle’s hexagonal shape and signifies the key Japanese botanicals of the gin, namely, Sakura flower, Sakura leaf, Yuzu peel, Sencha tea (green tea), Gyokuro tea (refined green tea) and Sanshō pepper. Elements of Japanese paper artistry take centre stage as renowned Japanese paper artist Eriko Horiki’s washi label proudly adorns the bottle. Conversely, long-time Roku collaborator Takeshi Ohgushi lends mastery to the pack design with his distinctive “Particles” technique that mirrors the grace of cherry blossoms. While much of the original concoction remains the same, the Roku Gin Sakura Bloom edition sees the Sakura flavours and aromas in particular heightened, resulting in a different dimension from its regular counterpart.

Editor’s tasting notes: Citrusy with a tang of spiciness is how I would describe Roku Gin. The Japanese twist from the Yuzu peel and Sanshō pepper contributes to this otherwise traditional gin style. Roku Gin can taste and smell a little sharp to some people, including myself. On the other hand, the Sakura Bloom Edition is more rounded, with the extra salinity coming from the Sakura flower and leaves. Floral notes are naturally more prominent as well, which lends a touch of elegance to the gin.

In celebration of the start of spring and this year’s Sakura Bloom Edition, Roku Gin partnered with AMI Patisserie and local food stylist and entrepreneur C.R Tan for an exclusive Craft with Bloom Omakase Experience from 4 to 6 April 2025. Founded by Executive Pastry Chef Makoto Arami, AMI Patisserie merges traditional Japanese flavours with European pastry techniques, creating a refined yet contemporary culinary experience.

“AMI Patisserie’s collaboration with Roku Gin was inspired by the desire to harmoniously blend traditional Japanese flavours with European pastry technique, creating a unique culinary experience that celebrates the essence of spring. This collaboration stemmed from a shared appreciation for Japanese culture and a commitment to meticulous craftsmanship. Roku Gin, known for its use of six uniquely Japanese botanicals, aligns seamlessly with my philosophy of integrating Japanese ingredients into European-style pastries.”

Adding on, Chun Rong says, “There’s an intrinsic synergy between Roku Gin’s philosophy and the way I approach my craft. The Japanese spirit of monozukuri — the art of craftsmanship and continual refinement — resonates deeply with me, as it does with the ethos of Chun Tsubaki. Our tagline, “To Refine and Redefine,” speaks to the pursuit of precision and beauty, much like how Roku Gin continuously innovates while honouring tradition.”

This exclusive tasting session, each lasting 2 hours, invites guests to slow down over a specially curated 8-course omakase dessert pairing alongside Roku Gin Sakura Bloom edition cocktails. Revel in unexpected twists as Chef Makoto’s classics, such as his Signature Choux, meld with the Roku Sakura Bloom Gin & Tonic with Pink Gari. Two other cocktail creations thought up by C.R. further demonstrate the versatility of the Roku Gin Sakura Bloom as either a cocktail or food pairing.

For those looking to savour the collaboration beyond the omakase experience, a limited edition Sakura Bloom Petite Gateaux Set of four pastries — featuring flavours like Strawberry Tarte, Matcha Kinako Choux, Sakura Choux and Spring Citrus Tarte — will be available throughout April at AMI Patisserie at SGD$68++. Every purchase will be entitled to a complimentary serving of Sakura Bloom Gin & Tonic with Pink Gari.

For those eager to bring the Sakura Bloom Edition home, Roku Gin is offering an exclusive pre-launch on LazMall from 24 to 27 March, with up to 45% off. The official launch follows on 5 April via the Suntory Global Spirits LazMall Flagship Store, making this exquisite edition more accessible to gin aficionados.

With the return of the Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition, spring is not just a season — it is an experience to be savoured, shared, and celebrated. Whether through curated tastings, artistic collaborations, or handcrafted cocktails, Roku Gin invites everyone to embrace the fleeting beauty of sakura, one sip at a time.

CRAFT WITH BLOOM OMAKASE EXPERIENCE

27 Scotts Rd, Singapore 228222
4 – 6 April 2025 | 12pm, 3pm, 6,30pm
Click here for online registration.

ROKU X LAZMALL

Pre-Launch | 24-27 March 2025
Launch | 5 April 2025
Click here to access the Suntory Global Spirits LazMall Flagship store

Once you are done with this story, click here to catch up with our March 2025 issue.