Inspired by the Japanese tradition of Noryo, Roku Gin’s latest limited edition brings Sencha, Gyokuro and the art of seasonal refreshment.
Summer gets a Japanese makeover as Roku Gin, the Japanese craft gin from The House of Suntory, introduces Roku Gin Noryo Tea Edition, a limited-edition expression inspired by Noryo — the Japanese tradition of seeking moments of refreshment and tranquillity during the height of summer.
Following the Sakura Bloom Edition in 2024, the new release marks the second chapter of Roku Gin’s Seasonal Festival Collection, continuing the brand’s commitment to Shun, the Japanese philosophy of celebrating ingredients at their seasonal peak.
This time, the spotlight falls on two of Roku Gin’s six signature Japanese botanicals: Sencha and Gyokuro green tea. Harvested at their seasonal peak, the teas bring together the vibrant freshness of Sencha and the deeper, umami-rich character of Gyokuro, creating an expression designed for warm-weather sipping.
The Noryo Tea Edition opens with a delicate grassy lift of Sencha, layered with soft citrus and familiar gin notes. On the palate, richer Gyokuro aromas emerge, balancing subtle sweetness and umami with the lighter, floral character of Sencha.
The finish gradually builds with Yuzu citrus, bright Sansho spice and classic gin characteristics, leaving behind an elegant tea aroma.
It is a flavour profile that makes tea the unexpected bridge between Japanese craft gin and contemporary cocktail culture.
“As Malaysia’s No. 1 gin, Roku Gin is committed to bringing the latest expressions of Japanese seasonality and craftsmanship to this priority market,” says Roger Chen, Marketing Director, Southeast Asia. “Noryo Tea Edition is the newest example of that commitment.”
The seasonal story extends to the bottle itself. Tea leaf illustrations, a washi-inspired label with green accents and botanical details embossed directly into the glass evoke the tranquillity of Noryo while reflecting Roku Gin’s appreciation for seasonality, nature and Japanese craftsmanship.
But the real innovation lies in how the expression invites consumers to encounter gin differently through flavours and rituals already familiar from Japanese tea culture.
Whether enjoyed as a crafted cocktail, during a quiet pause or shared with friends, Noryo Tea Edition is designed around the idea of stepping away from routine and making space for refreshment and connection.
Asia’s smallest tea bar
Following its Singapore debut, Roku Gin brings Asia’s Smallest Tea Bar to Malaysia, creating an intimate platform for discovering the new expression through cocktails, matcha and contemporary tea culture.
The first stop was Coley in Bangsar from 17 to 22 August, where visitors can explore tea-inspired cocktails including the signature Noryo Melon Fizz, alongside matcha-led experiences.
A highlight was the limited-seat Matcha Cocktail Masterclass hosted by Shaun Liew, founder of ONO Specialty Coffee & Matcha and three-time Malaysia Brewers Cup champion. Also in attendance was House of Suntory brand ambassador Darwin Ng.
“Tea has always been about discovery,” said Liew. “What makes Roku Gin Noryo Tea Edition special is how it brings the familiarity of Japanese tea culture into the world of cocktails.”
Cocktail trail continues
From 1 September, the Noryo Tea Edition experience expands to partnering bars including Pahit, TeRu.Mi, Bar Gaya, and Dear Hearts and Chilled Spirits. Each venue will create its own bespoke serve, offering a different interpretation of the tea-forward gin.
At Coley, meanwhile, Bar manager Loco saw the activation as an opportunity to make the world of gin feel more approachable.
“We hope to create a space where guests can take a break, explore tea-inspired cocktails, and experience a fresh perspective on gin,” he said.
Ultimately, Roku Gin Noryo Tea Edition is less about simply introducing another limited-edition bottle than creating a new way to experience the season.
With Japanese tea at its heart and contemporary cocktails as its canvas, it captures the essence of Noryo: slowing down, finding refreshment and appreciating the fleeting pleasures of summer.
For updates, follow Roku Gin on Instagram.
Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
