Volume：700ml
ABV：45%

“Bear’s Book” — quite an intriguing name for a gin. At first glance, one might wonder whether rare ingredients such as bear gall or bear paw were somehow involved. Then it suddenly clicked… the gin is distilled by Takahashi Shuzo of Kumamoto Prefecture. “Kuma” means bear, while “moto” can mean origin or book — thus, “Bear’s Book” was born 🤣

Only a new generation of distillers would dare name a gin after such a playful pun.

One glance at the label reading “Respect For Juniper Berry” immediately reveals the spirit’s stylistic direction — a gin deeply rooted in the traditions of classic London Dry Gin. Takahashi Shuzo spent four years developing this expression, building the recipe around juniper berries while incorporating Japanese botanicals such as sansho pepper, dekopon citrus, yuzu, cedarwood, ginger, and rice husks. The result is a gin with remarkable balance and endless drinkability.

Let’s taste it neat.

On the nose, classic juniper herbal notes intertwine beautifully with bright citrus acidity and the gentle spice of sansho pepper. Beneath that lies a subtle Japanese elegance of cedarwood and tea-like aromatics. While remaining faithful to the structure of a traditional London Dry Gin, it introduces a uniquely soft and refined Japanese character.

The palate opens with rich juniper botanicals, followed by sweet citrus and yuzu flavours. The finish gradually unfolds into warming ginger spice and the tingling complexity of sansho pepper. Structured, layered, and exceptionally polished — this is simply an excellent gin.

Takahashi Shuzo itself carries over 120 years of history, and its famous “Hakutake” brand remains one of the representative names in Kuma rice shochu. Perhaps because of this deep-rooted heritage, the distillery intentionally keeps a certain distance from trend-driven products like “Bear’s Book.” Interestingly, Takahashi Shuzo’s official website contains barely any mention of this gin at all.

Even so, that has not stopped “Bear’s Book” from receiving strong recognition at international competitions such as the Ultimate Spirits Challenge and the International Taste Institute.

Stylish, distinctive, and genuinely delicious — highly recommended.