There was once a lemon tea liqueur that everyone raved about, famous for its robust tea flavor and classic Hong Kong lemon tea style. About a year ago, Kobayashi Shuzo announced a redesign: the beloved squirrel mascot disappeared from the label, and the signature Hong Kong lemon tea flavor was gone. The product’s name changed from “Sour to the Future” to “&Sour,” and the new version featured sharp lemon acidity but lacked the signature rich tea character. While the new version isn’t bad, it just doesn’t capture the original Hong Kong spirit...

Unable to let go, we reached out to the main Kobayashi Shuzo brewery in Fukuoka, pleading our case and sharing how deeply Hong Kongers love their lemon tea. After much persuasion, they agreed to revive the original recipe—releasing a limited batch with the “Hong Kong Edition” label and bringing back the classic squirrel!

This liqueur is crafted with 100% Japanese lemon juice, infused with Earl Grey and Oolong teas, and bottled at 22% ABV. The official serving suggestion is to mix 1 part liqueur with 4 parts ice-cold soda water.

First, try it on the rocks: the aroma is a beautiful blend of fresh lemon and refined black tea. The palate is rich and sweet, with lemon and Earl Grey tea notes seamlessly melding together. The high ABV carries a lingering tea bitterness and citrus fragrance that stay on the palate—leaving a long, elegant finish with almost no alcohol burn.

For those who prefer a less sweet profile, simply follow the official suggestion and mix with soda water. Once combined, the sweetness drops to just the right level, and the lemon aroma and refreshing tea flavors come alive with sparkling bubbles. One sip banishes the summer heat, and the lingering tea aftertaste is utterly satisfying. Perfect for pairing with hot pot, BBQ, grilled meats, or crunchy snacks—this liqueur is the ultimate companion to all your favorite comfort foods!