We don’t know about you, but there’s something about Asian spirits (Japanese, specifically) that completely fascinates us. You’ll often find truly unique botanicals you can’t find anywhere else. What does this Japanese Kozue gin have in store? Well, you will have some of the botanicals you’d expect, like tangerine peel, juniper, and lemon, but it the gin also pulls some of its flavor from koyomaki needles. This is a kind of umbrella pine found specifically in Japan. The name Kozu itself is in reference to the very tip of a tree. When sampling this gin you’ll discover the added sansho pepper helps add warmth to the gin, and yet there is a subtle pine, citrus taste going on in the background.

Pairs Well With

We’ve been loving spicy foods paired with rice and served with a Kozue gin Tom Collins. Think a thicker Thai curry, so the sauce can really blend, and then the refreshing Tom Collins will help cut any heat.