Scroll
Botanicals, both typical ones and those that are nurtured by the nature of Japan, are in perfect harmony. The clear, refreshing and mellow aroma of Japanese citrus sour pomelo is extracted through the vapor infusion technique. Then, 14 various botanicals are blended in, these ranging from the essential juniper berry to biwa leaf and yomogi, each adding to the spicy top notes, and a touch of sweetness arrives on the finish achieved by sakura chips. At the base is fruity, fragrant Honkaku Imo Shochu, the representation of the traditional drinking culture in Kagoshima in the south of Kyushu. Then comes koji mold, which plays an indispensable role in the preparation stage: It makes sweet potato sweeter and deeper in taste, leading to a mellow mouthfeel when sipped. Each botanical ingredient is harmonized and brings out the individuality.
Sasshu was another term for Satsuma, referring to the western half of the modern Kagoshima Prefecture in olden days. The region enjoys a temperate climate and is known as a home of quality produce. Another unique feature, volcanic ash soil, produces filtered pure water that is ideal for shochu making. The botanicals are also from this land. 500 years of traditional handcraft techniques have now helped transform these quality ingredients into a Japanese craft gin—a true spirit that symbolizes Kagoshima's originality. With the idea in the name, we hope to continue to share our stories with the world.
With Honkaku Imo Shochu as the base spirit, two types of manufacturing methods are employed to maximize the characteristics of the botanicals. The two unprocessed shochu are then blended in a fine balance to create an elegant Japanese craft gin that leaves a Japanese elegance in a classical taste.
A traditional Japanese ratio (yamato-hi) is utilized in the burnishing cut. The polished and delicate shape originates in the golden ratio, which human perception naturally captures as beautiful proportion. The cut in the bottom half of the bottle depicts an old fashioned glass in an authentic bar. The label is designed in a monotone and elegant silver tone and with the depiction of the symbol of Kagoshima—Sakurajima volcano—showcasing the Sasshu quality.
Bottle shape in the traditional Japanese ratio
The bottle shape is inspired by the image of an old fashioned glass in an authentic bar.
The symbol of Kagoshima, Sakurajima, in the design
Experience the harmony between Japanese botanicals and Honkaku Imo Shochu filled with koji mold-derived fruity aroma and flavor. Japanese and Sasshu quality can be sensed in its aroma and flavor, from the top to the finish of the drink.
tasting 01
A white flower-like aroma and woody and spicy flavor from juniper berry greets your senses.
This light drink will go well with most any meal.
Put the ingredients in a tumbler and give a light stir.
tasting 02
Sweetness and umami seep from the citrus aroma and base shochu. This mix will leave a soft mouthfeel and a sweet aftertaste.
Pour hot water in first and the gin second. The gin will blend in better and create a mellow taste.
cocktail 01
Enjoy an exotic taste that combines the umami and sweetness, from both Sasshu Gin and skipjack stock soup.
Pour the mixture into a wine glass and swirl well. Strain and stir well in a mixing glass. Garnish with a lemon peel twist and olive if so desired.
cocktail 02
The richness of Sasshu Gin juxtaposes the bergamot liqueur in a fruity drink. Use chartreuse instead for a green-notes martini.
Premix the above and stir in a mixing glass. Pour into a cocktail glass and serve with a lemon peel twist.
cocktail 03
Sasshu Gin’s base profile is finished with a bittersweet taste like white chocolate. Vermouth is substituted with Carpano Antica, creating a woody and green taste.
Premix the above and stir in a mixing glass. Pour into an ice-filled old-fashioned glass and flame squeezed oil from an orange peel while twisting. Garnish with white chocolate.
cocktail 04
A wonderful drink to enjoy the refreshing citrus aroma of sour pomelo, woody aromas from juniper berries and cherries, and the umami derived from shochu.
Pour Sasshu Gin and soda in a tumbler with ice. Stir gently and serve.