To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Ritz Carlton Kyoto in 2024, the hotel partnered with Kyoto Distillery to create the 29th release of Kiinobi. This special edition was crafted by Yosuke Asano, head bartender at The Bar (Ritz Carlton), using Ki No Bi gin aged in new Japanese mizunara oak casks, combined with a distillate made from gyokuro and tencha teas. The result: a gin that showcases Japanese flavors with a complex, layered profile.

A total of 1,530 bottles were produced, with many served at the hotel’s anniversary celebrations and the remainder released to the public.

On the nose, sweet orange and lemon dominate, gradually revealing hints of green tea. The palate is rich and silky, with juniper, yuzu, green tea, and vanilla intertwining. The finish is long, evolving with sandalwood notes from the mizunara cask and an array of fruit flavors.

Kiinobi always stands for top quality. The label features the Noh mask “Heita,” typically representing a young samurai with a fierce, open-mouthed expression in Japanese theater.