A Toast to Spring: The Reemergence of Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition

Commemorate spring with the Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition and the Craft with Bloom Omakase Experience featuring AMI Patisserie and local culinary stylist and entrepreneur C.R. Tan.

Spring signifies regeneration, heralding the return of the Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition for 2025. The prompt release coincides with Japan's esteemed cherry blossom season, as The House of Suntory merges history and innovation to create a distinctive sensory experience. The Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition embodies the Japanese philosophy of shun, emphasizing the enjoyment of ingredients at their zenith. Roku, meaning six, is emphasized by the bottle's hexagonal form and represents the essential Japanese botanicals in the gin: Sakura flower, Sakura leaf, Yuzu peel, Sencha tea, Gyokuro tea, and Sanshō pepper. The elements of Japanese paper arts are prominently included, as the esteemed paper artist Eriko Horiki's washi label embellishes the bottle. In contrast, long-time Roku colleague Takeshi Ohgushi applies his expertise to the packaging design using his unique “Particles” approach, which reflects the elegance of cherry blossoms. The Roku Gin Sakura Bloom edition retains much of the original formulation, although it amplifies the Sakura flavors and fragrances, creating a distinct dimension compared to its standard version.

Roku Gin is characterized by citrus aromas accompanied with a hint of spice. The Yuzu peel and Sanshō pepper impart a Japanese flavor to this otherwise conventional gin recipe. Roku Gin may possess a somewhat pungent flavor and aroma for certain individuals, myself included. Conversely, the Sakura Bloom Edition exhibits a more rounded profile, with additional saltiness derived from the Sakura bloom and foliage. The floral aromas are inherently more pronounced, imparting an element of sophistication to the gin.

Roku Gin is increasingly establishing its footprint in Southeast Asia, especially in significant markets such as Singapore and Malaysia, with a narrative that aligns more closely with contemporary customers. Roger Chen, Marketing Director at Suntory Global Spirits SEA, articulates that although the brand is already bolstered by its robust Japanese craft and heritage, the immediate focus is on rendering this legacy pertinent to younger demographics, particularly Generation Z. “Contemporary younger consumers are not merely purchasing products; they are investing in narratives and principles,” he states. Roku Gin aims to establish itself not merely as a conventional gin, but as an entryway into modern Japanese society. “Roku invites exploration — an experiential journey that merges craftsmanship with contemporary cultural codes.”

To actualize this vision, the brand has undergone a significant transformation in its storytelling style – transitioning from product-centric narratives to those centered on individuals. In markets such as Singapore, this has resulted in partnerships with local figures who personify the brand's essence. These collaborations not only enhance visibility but also serve as genuine manifestations of the brand's ideals, transforming heritage into a dynamic and experiential reality. “In a digital-centric environment, particularly among Generation Z, storytelling must be both humanistic and immersive,” asserts Chen. “We are acquiring insights from our audience at every stage—experimenting, listening, and adjusting.” The objective is to convey tradition infused with a contemporary essence, whether through unforeseen experiences, digital media, or culturally relevant advertisements.

This transition is seen in efforts such as the Craft with Bloom Omakase Experience, which illustrates how Roku Gin is transcending traditional packaging. This exemplifies the brand's commitment to establishing storytelling platforms that integrate flavor, heritage, and sentiment—providing consumers with more than only a beverage, but a holistic engagement with a culture and ideology.

To commemorate the onset of spring and the Sakura Bloom Edition of this year, Roku Gin has collaborated with AMI Patisserie and local food stylist and entrepreneur C.R. Tan to present the special Craft with Bloom Omakase Experience from April 4 to 6, 2025. Established by Executive Pastry Chef Makoto Arami, AMI Patisserie integrates traditional Japanese flavors with European pastry methods, resulting in a sophisticated and modern culinary experience.

AMI Patisserie's partnership with Roku Gin was motivated by the aspiration to seamlessly integrate traditional Japanese flavors with European pastry techniques, resulting in a distinctive culinary experience that honors the essence of spring. This partnership originated from a mutual admiration for Japanese culture and a dedication to precise craftsmanship. Roku Gin, distinguished by its incorporation of six distinct Japanese botanicals, perfectly coincides with my philosophy of merging Japanese ingredients into European-style pastry.

Furthermore, Chun Rong states, “There exists an inherent synergy between Roku Gin’s philosophy and my approach to craftsmanship.” The Japanese concept of monozukuri — the art of craftsmanship and perpetual improvement — profoundly resonates with me, as it does with the principles of Chun Tsubaki. Our tagline, “To Refine and Redefine,” encapsulates the quest for accuracy and elegance, akin to Roku Gin's ongoing innovation while respecting tradition.

This exclusive 2-hour tasting event invites visitors to indulge in a meticulously selected 8-course omakase dessert pairing, complemented with Roku Gin Sakura Bloom edition cocktails. Experience surprising combinations as Chef Makoto's signature dishes, including his renowned Choux, harmonize with the Roku Sakura Bloom Gin & Tonic infused with Pink Gari. Two other cocktail inventions conceived by C.R. further illustrate the adaptability of Roku Gin Sakura Bloom as both a cocktail and a food accompaniment.

A limited edition Sakura Bloom Petite Gateaux Set, comprising four pastries—Strawberry Tarte, Matcha Kinako Choux, Sakura Choux, and Spring Citrus Tarte—will be available for SGD$68++ at AMI Patisserie throughout April for those wishing to enjoy the collaboration beyond the omakase experience. Each purchase will include a complimentary serving of Sakura Bloom Gin & Tonic accompanied with Pink Gari.

Roku Gin is providing a unique pre-launch of the Sakura Bloom Edition on LazMall from March 24 to 27, featuring discounts of up to 45 percent. The official debut occurs on 5 April through the Suntory Global Spirits LazMall Flagship Store, enhancing accessibility for gin enthusiasts to this exceptional edition.

The reintroduction of the Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition transforms spring into an experience to be cherished, shared, and commemorated. Roku Gin encourages anyone to appreciate the ephemeral beauty of sakura through selective tastings, artistic collaborations, and handcrafted cocktails, one sip at a time.