#Japan #Tokyo #Craft Gin #Antonic #Dear20s

The Journey of Creating 'Dear20s': A Student's Craft Gin Project

A group of 20 students has culminated their innovative craft gin development project, "Dear20s," which is set to launch on March 2, 2026. This initiative, led by Sidecar Co., Ltd., operates the gin and tonic specialty store Antonic in Nakameguro, Tokyo. The project began on July 6, 2025, at the Hachioji Distillery in Tokyo, gathering students with little prior experience in gin production.

Introduction to 'Dear20s'

The project "Our Gin Development Journey - A Challenge by 20 Students" has been affectionately dubbed "Boku Gin". The students aimed to develop a craft gin from the ground up. By collaborating with professionals while infusing youthful creativity, the project sought to demystify the bar and gin culture that often seems intimidating.

This initiative aims to provide younger generations with easy access to bar culture by involving students in every aspect of gin production, including:

• - Management and Planning of the project
• - Research, Prototype Development, and Manufacturing
• - Design of labels and promotional materials
• - Copywriting for marketing
• - Sales Activities involving both restaurants and retail shops
• - Cocktail Recipe Creation
• - Event Planning and Management
• - Public Relations efforts

A Hands-On Process

To ensure that the gin resonated with their generation, the students engaged in an in-depth discussion to explore the vision behind the project. They focused on questions such as whom they wanted to drink their gin and how they could celebrate the dawn of adulthood.
During their brainstorming sessions at Antonic, students tasted existing products to enhance their understanding of the market. Many participated who already had experience working in bars or had a passion for gin, while others gathered insights from their peers who were less acquainted with drinking culture.

By reflecting on their own experiences and popular cocktails accessible to young audiences—such as Fuzzy Navel, Cassis Orange, and Umeshu—they decided to highlight the flavor profile of peaches, which they believed could relate to both the newcomers to alcohol and seasoned drinkers alike. The seasonality of March, a time of graduation and celebrating the arrival of spring, was also a guiding concept in the creation of 'Dear20s.'

The Meaning Behind 'Dear20s'

The concept behind the name 'Dear20s' reflects an intention to craft a drink that honors the beginning of one’s twenties. The students wanted the name to represent a moment that would be cherished, a drink to elevate the experience of this transitional period. Being in one's twenties often entails feelings of both pride and uncertainty as one navigates new territories of adulthood.

The term “Dear” signifies warmth and personal connection, akin to sending a heartfelt letter. It serves as an invitation for many to explore the world of spirits and bars. It’s a letter of congratulations to those stepping into their twenties, while highlighting the symbolism that connects the students’ journey with their own personal experiences.

Ultimately, the group voted on the name 'Dear20s,' which encapsulates both the celebration of turning twenty and the arrival into a new world of experiences involving gin and bar culture.

Design Concept

Building on the chosen concept and name, the bottle design was shaped through a competitive proposal from within the student body. The selected design conveys the essence of a "Bottle Mail", echoing sentiments that bridge past, present, and future. The intention is for this bottle to resonate with peers and also touch those who recall their twenties.

Crafting and Distilling the Gin

The development phase involved sharing insights about the desired flavor with the distillery team at Hachioji. The students aimed for a gin that carried a welcoming and fruity aroma, like that of a Fuzzy Navel. Extensive tastings were conducted with several recipes drafted for consideration.

As the project progressed, the team collaborated closely with Hachioji Distillery, participating in actual distillation processes, where students helped mix botanicals, creating a harmony of flavors that would ultimately embody 'Dear20s'.

Product Details

• - Name: Dear20s
• - Type: Gin (Spirits)
• - Volume: 500ml
• - ABV: 40%
• - MSRP: 5,000 JPY (tax included)
• - Main Botanicals: Juniper berries, peach, peach blossom, orange peel, coriander seed, angelica root, licorice root, lemon peel, cardamom, cinnamon.
• - Producer: Daishin Hachioji Distillery
• - Release Date: March 2, 2026
• - Available at: Antonic, THE HISAKA, Musashiya, and more.

Tasting notes highlight scents reminiscent of peach blossoms and cherry rice cakes complemented by a delightful bitterness and spiciness, making it ideal when paired with tonic water for a refreshing experience.

Upcoming Events

To celebrate the launch, there will be two planned events:
1. Release Event at Antonic on March 1 - This event will engage participants in discussions about gin and feature tastings of 'Dear20s'.
2. Cocktail Party at THE HISAKA on March 15 - Attendees will experience custom cocktails crafted from 'Dear20s' and engage with the bar atmosphere.

Conclusion

'Crafting Dear20s' has been an enriching journey not just in creating a spirit but also in fostering connections among future bartenders, sellers, and consumers. This gin is more than just a drink; it’s a thoughtful celebration of a decade in life and a bridge to the engaging world of bars, spirits, and camaraderie. As students, the organizers convey their sincere appreciation for everyone involved—professionals, peers, and mentors—who contributed to this delightful concoction. The anticipation surrounding 'Dear20s' is a testament to the unyielding spirit of collaboration and a bright hope for the future of bar culture among youth.