The London Spirits Competition is known for showcasing the finest spirits available in the market. With 40 judges coming together to choose the best bottles in 29 different categories, the event aims to highlight brands that consumers would want to add to their collections. This year marked the 7th iteration of the competition, and it did not disappoint. The Gin of the Year Award went to a surprising contender, Ukiyo Japanese Yuzu Gin, proving that the gin industry is evolving in exciting new directions.
The gin market is forecasted to grow at an annual rate of 5% for the next five years, according to a report from IWSR. While the US, UK, and Spain are the largest gin markets, other countries such as Japan are seeing significant growth in gin consumption. As more consumers explore classic gin cocktails like the Negroni and Martini, new and established brands are stepping up to meet the demand. Ukiyo Spirits, based outside Tokyo, is one such brand that has captured the attention of gin enthusiasts worldwide.
Ukiyo Spirits, a brand under the Kirker Greer Spirits umbrella, represents the modern gin movement with its innovative approach to distilling. The term ‘Ukiyo’ translates to ‘floating world,’ a concept that the brand embodies through its focus on living in the present moment. Using traditional Japanese distilling methods and local botanicals, Ukiyo Spirits produces a range of gins and a rice vodka that have garnered acclaim in the industry. The Japanese Yuzu Gin, in particular, has taken the spotlight with its unique flavor profile and exceptional quality.
Made from Japanese shochu spirit and infused with juniper, yuzu, citrus, and regional botanicals, the Japanese Yuzu Gin received rave reviews from the judges at the London Spirits Competition. Scoring an impressive 97 points out of 100, the gin not only won the Best in Show by Country award but also the Best Spirits by Package award for its distinctive bottle design. Described as a complex gin with herbal notes and a long citrus finish, the Japanese Yuzu Gin has become a standout product in the global gin scene.
The recognition of Ukiyo Japanese Yuzu Gin at the London Spirits Competition is a testament to the evolving landscape of the gin industry. With a growing interest in unique flavors and botanicals, brands like Ukiyo Spirits are leading the way in innovation and quality. As consumers continue to explore the world of gin, it is exciting to see the emergence of brands that push the boundaries of traditional distilling methods and offer new and exciting options for spirits enthusiasts everywhere.
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