In the spirit world, Japan may be well known for its whisky but Japanese distillers are set to challenge the status quo by joining the gin revolution and producing gins that reflect local terroir. One such newcomer is Wa Bi Gin, a small batch Japanese gin from Mars Tsunuki distillery.
Wa Bi Gin is a relative newcomer to the Australian market, crafted at the Tsunuki distillery in Kagoshima which is located at the south western tip of the island of Kyushu in Japan. The distillery is owned by Hombo Shuzo Co. which produce Mars Whisky.
Crafted in small batches, Wa Bi Gin is an expression of the native botanicals which are locally grown and sourced from Kagoshima around the distillery, with the exception of juniper berries which are imported from Albania and Macedonia.
The nine native botanicals were chosen for their distinctive character and the medley of flavours they produce in harmony. From the citrus family, kumquat lends sweet and bitter notes and is the key citrus ingredient in the gin. Hetsuka oranges are used for their notable sourness, lemons add a citrus punch and yuzu contributes a floral and sweet citrus note. Ginger acts as a support to the citrus flavours.
Other native botanicals feature green tea which lends sweetness, mild acidity and a hint of bitterness, shell ginger for a floral and spicy aroma, cinnamon leaf for a sweeter flavour profile and shiso (perilla) for its grassy herbal notes with subtle bitterness.
The base spirit of Wa Bi Gin is a spirit distilled from rice spirit. The botanicals are infused in the base spirit for about 24 hours then distilled again using the one shot method.
At 45% ABV, Wa Bi Gin has aromas of bright citrus with a hint of warm spices. The palate is big with bright, punchy citrus notes at the fore and tapers to a dry and spicy backbone with a long finish. The juniper is present but not overpowering which creates a harmonious blend of flavours. The gin stands up well in a Martini as well as a range of cocktails that highlight some of the local botanicals of the gin.
Wa Bi Gin is presented in a clear bottle with a label that bears three decorative Satsuma Buttons, each illustrating a grouping of the local gin botanicals. The name is a play on the word wa-bijin, which means beautiful Japanese women.
Wa Bi Gin is available in Australia in 700 ml bottles at RRP $135.99 from Dan Murphy’s Cellar Prahran (282 Chapel St, Prahran VIC, Phone: (03) 8347 6662). Also available through Qantas ePiqure at $135.00.
In partnership with Déjà vu Sake Co, importers of Wa Bi Gin in Australia.
Next… What to do with Wa Bi Gin: 3 Cocktail Recipes from Rockpool Dining Group Bartenders
