Etsu Sakura Japanese Gin ohne GP

Volume: 0.7 litres | Alcohol content: 43% | Chill filtration: No | Colouring: No

Special Features:

Cherry blossom shapes the floral character of Etsu Sakura. The gin draws on the Japanese tradition of hanami, which centres on viewing cherry blossoms. Alongside sakura, the recipe includes dried yuzu peel, green bitter orange peel, juniper, coriander seeds, liquorice and angelica root.

The botanicals contribute different characteristics: cherry blossom adds delicate floral sweetness, citrus peels bring freshness, and juniper provides a piquant, peppery note. Coriander adds a slightly minty nuance. Liquorice contributes anise, wood and a little bitterness, while angelica root adds bitter notes and warmth on the palate. The gin is suitable for cocktails and mixing with tonic.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: On the nose, delicate cherry blossom combines with fresh yuzu. A light herbal note complements the floral aroma.
• Palate: Cherry blossom opens the palate, accompanied by citrus and bitter orange peel. Liquorice and coriander seeds add subtle accents without overshadowing the delicate balance.
• Finish: Floral notes linger in the light, soft finish. A hint of fresh citrus peel accompanies the lingering flavours.

Distillery/Bottler:

The Akita distillery is located on Honshū near the Ōu Mountains and produces Etsu Double Yuzu and Etsu Double Orange as well as Etsu Sakura. ETSU Gin is a BBC Spirits brand; this gin is distilled in Japan.

In Akita, the botanicals are macerated for seven days in alcohol made from sugar cane molasses. They are then removed, and the infused alcohol is diluted to 30% before a single distillation in a copper still. The distillate leaves the still at 65%. Water from the Ōu Mountains then brings the gin to its bottling strength of 43%. Before bottling, a fine-mesh filter removes impurities; the gin is not chill-filtered.

Facts: