More from FOODEX Japan 2025!
It has become increasingly difficult to write about the gin market in Japan. This is not due to a dearth of quality products entering the market, however. From what I have experienced, the trend is in the opposite direction: there are many impressive craft gins from which the consumer may choose. This is truly remarkable because I can clearly remember when the paltry selection of gin in Tokyo liquor stores was relegated to their dusty bottom shelves.
At FOODEX Japan 2025, this output of Tokyo Hachioji Distillery caught my attention for a number of reasons. First, I had sampled their products at another venue and found them good; second, their location, which is within commuting distance of central Tokyo; and third, their choice of botanicals, especially the one proudly featured on the label pictured below. As you can see, it says “Elderflower.” More on that later.
I have had an interest in herbs and medicinal plants for many years, owing to their numerous salubrious characteristics, of course, but also because the folklore surrounding many of them is simply fascinating. Consider the wild pansy (Viola tricolor). No, it doesn’t wave the French flag, but it does have a number of vernacular names: “garden violet” (okay, not so interesting), “Johnny Jumper” (attention getting but nothing spectacular), “heartsease” (something to ponder for a while), and “kiss-her-in-the-buttery” (yeah, that’s it!).
Elderflower and elderberry have long been used in herbal medicine, and I have drunk elderflower tea on numerous occasions, so when I smelt Tokyo Hachioji Distillery’s gin, I immediately identified elderflower. Juniper, of course, is also noticeable. Less obvious on the nose but included among the botanicals used to produce this are angelica root, cardamon, cloves, lemon peel, and more. On the palate, the beverage is sweet and has a silky mouthfeel. The ABV is 40%, and the bottle is a work of art. I think the best way to consume this is straight or on the rocks. No cocktails, please.
Link to Tokyo Hachioji Distillery: hachioji-distillery.jp
Drinking Japan 