When people think of Japanese gin, most immediately think of Roku. Crafted with six quintessential Japanese botanicals — sakura flower, sakura leaf, sencha, gyokuro, yuzu, and sanshō pepper — it has become a worldwide favorite for its balance of tradition and distinct Japanese flavor.

For summer 2025, Suntory releases a limited edition: Roku Noryo Tea Edition. Noryo in Japanese means “cooling off in summer,” and this edition highlights the refreshing flavors of sencha and gyokuro, evoking the cool, breezy feeling of summer evenings.

The packaging is as thoughtful as ever. A hexagonal box features an elegant scene of three women in yukata relaxing by the riverside under green leaves, instantly conveying a sense of coolness and seasonal charm.

On the nose, fresh sencha leads, followed by notes of yuzu and sanshō. Medium-bodied, the palate unfolds with crisp green tea freshness layered with peppery spice, extending into a long, elegant finish. While staying true to Roku’s original style, this edition enhances the tea notes and refreshing character, making it a must-try for fans.