Hamada Syuzou debuts Sasshu craft gin

Distiller Hamada Syuzou has launched a premium craft gin called Sasshu – a blend of Japanese botanicals, koji mould, and sweet potato-based shochu.

Headquartered in Ichikikushikino City, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, Hamada Syuzou will start exporting Sasshu gin to the UK, France, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the US from this month.

The brand is capitalising on the increasing ‘popularity’ of the gin category, especially the ‘highly sought-after’ premium craft gin sector.

Hamada Syuzou has developed the gin using Honkaku Shochu. The distiller has stayed true to its roots, using traditional Japanese distilling techniques for the production of the gin, which have been used since the company’s establishment in 1868.

The use of koji results in the liquid being fruitier and more flavourful, and is harmonised with Japanese botanicals in a way that elevates its use for cocktail-making.

Hamada Syuzou’s Sasshu gin promises to surprise the bartenders, mixologists and spirits fans who are always in search of inspiration.

Clocking in at 45% ABV, the gin is available in 700ml bottles, and contains Honkaku imo shochu as the base spirit, along with juniper berry, sour pomelo, shikuwasa (citrus fruit), rose petal, sakura chips, yomogi (mugwort), biwa (loquat) leaves, and seven other botanicals.

From its nose to its taste profile, Sasshu demonstrates its Japanese and Kagoshima quality in a sip.

The premium gin will be presented at Stand F40 at the Japan Pavilion of UK-based drinks industry event Imbibe Live, taking place from 3-4 July.

To find out more, visit: www.hamadasyuzou.co.jp/global/en/sasshu_gin/, or visit its Facebook page: www.facebook.com/hamadaglobal

The brand has also created a spot to mark the launch of Sasshu – to watch, click below.