The London Spirits Competition is an event that sets the stage for the best bottles in the industry to be recognized and celebrated. With 40 judges coming together to evaluate and crown winners in 29 different categories, this competition is a platform for both established brands and up-and-coming players to showcase their offerings. The aim is to highlight brands that consumers are eager to buy, and over the years, the event has become known for unearthing hidden gems and surprising the industry.
In the latest iteration of the London Spirits Competition, a major upset took place when Ukiyo Japanese Yuzu Gin was crowned Gin of the Year. This unexpected win of a gin from the far east in the heart of gin culture in London raised eyebrows and drew attention to the evolving landscape of the spirit. The rise of gin’s popularity is evident, with a projected 5% annual CAGR for the coming years, especially in emerging markets like Japan.
Meet Ukiyo Spirits: Redefining Modern Gin
Ukiyo Spirits, the brand behind the award-winning Japanese Yuzu Gin, is a new entrant in the scene. Located near Tokyo and launched by Kirker Greer Spirits, a part of Drinksology Kirker Greer (DKG Group), Ukiyo Spirits embodies the essence of the modern gin movement. Their range of products, including their distinct gins and Japanese Rice Vodka, showcases a commitment to quality and innovation. The term “Ukiyo,” meaning “floating world,” signifies their philosophy of living in the moment and enjoying life’s pleasures.
At Ukiyo Spirits, traditional Japanese distilling methods are employed to craft their spirits, using a base of rice infused with local botanicals. Their Japanese Yuzu Gin, in particular, is crafted from a traditional Japanese shochu spirit, distilled with juniper, yuzu, citrus, and regional botanicals. The result is a gin that captured the judges’ attention with its complexity, herbal notes, balanced palate, and long citrus finish. Scoring an impressive 97 points at the competition, the Japanese Yuzu Gin also earned accolades for its unique two-color bottle design that pays homage to Japan’s natural beauty.
As the gin market continues to grow and evolve, the success of Ukiyo Japanese Yuzu Gin at the London Spirits Competition serves as a testament to the spirit’s enduring appeal. With a focus on quality, innovation, and tradition, brands like Ukiyo Spirits are reshaping the industry and paving the way for a new era of gin appreciation. Whether you’re a seasoned gin connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of spirits, the rise of gems like Ukiyo Japanese Yuzu Gin offers a glimpse into the exciting future of the spirit industry.