#Japan #Tokyo #Ethical Spirits #Spirits of Terroir #Japanese Sansho

Unveiling 'Spirits of Terroir - Takachihogou and Mt. Aso Sansho'

The innovative craft gin named 'Spirits of Terroir - Takachihogou and Mt. Aso Sansho' is set to be launched on December 10, 2025. This limited-edition gin, developed by House Foods Group and Ethical Spirits, leverages the unique flavors derived from locally sourced sansho, a spice native to Japan. The product will be available at the Ethical Spirits' official online store and their physical store located at Tokyo Riverside Distillery.

Collaborating for a Sustainable Future

House Foods Group, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has partnered with Ethical Spirits, based in Taito, Tokyo, to initiate a 'Production Area Formation Project' aimed at enhancing sansho production in Takachihogou, Miyazaki, and Mt. Aso, Kumamoto. The project embraces a collaborative approach involving local producers, suppliers like Sugimoto Shoten, and universities such as Minami Kyushu University. This initiative not only aims to revitalize the region's agro-economy but also to address issues such as the aging demographic of farmers and natural disaster impacts leading to reduced sansho production.

Taking a significant step forward, the project aims to preserve this valuable resource and introduce its potentials to a global audience. The gin showcases the aromatic qualities of fresh sansho, yielding a refreshing and vibrant drinking experience. Such a unique offering broadens the traditional perceptions of sansho beyond its customary use in Japanese cuisine.

The Crafting Process: Ingredients from Nature

To create 'Spirits of Terroir', several other ingredients that resonate with the local environment were incorporated. Along with fresh sansho, the gin includes shiitake stems, hebezu (a citrus fruit), and roasted corn tea from the Takachihogou and Aso regions. This thoughtful combination imbues the spirit with an artisanal quality through innovative distillation techniques that capture the essence of each ingredient’s aroma. The gin's flavor profile features pleasant spiciness and refreshing citrus notes, resulting in an easy-to-drink yet complex beverage that complements various cuisines.

The distilling processes were designed to create balanced flavors, enhancing sansho’s unique spiciness while ensuring the drink remains accessible even to those new to craft gin. The main botanical used is fresh sansho, chosen for its fruity notes reminiscent of live citrus.

The Essential Ingredients:

• - Main Botanical: Fresh sansho from Takachihogou and Mt. Aso
• - Other Botanicals: Shiitake stems from Sugimoto Shoten, roasted green tea from Takachihogou, hebezu from Miyazaki, and roasted corn tea from Mt. Aso

The Journey from Concept to Creation

What began as an exploration of sansho’s versatility resulted in extensive local collaboration, culminating in the gin’s development within just five months from initial harvest. House Foods Group's and Ethical Spirits' team spent considerable time sourcing the ideal botanicals through local markets, embodying the spirit of “rooted in the community.”

Tasting Notes and Pairing Suggestions

• - Top Note: A lively aroma of sansho—bright and refreshing.
• - Mid Note: Sweetness from citrus adds depth to the sansho spiciness.
• - Last Note: The crisp finish accentuated by juniper creates a lingering finish.

To enjoy the 'Spirits of Terroir', mixing it with soda in a 1:3 or 1:4 ratio is recommended, pairing it with everyday dishes like hot pot, fried chicken, or pickled vegetables.

Future Prospects for Japanese Sansho

Looking ahead, the project anticipates a full commercial launch for Takachihogou and Mt. Aso sansho by 2027, incorporating it into various product lines, including gourmet foods and desserts. Through ongoing efforts, the House Foods Group aims to connect local communities and create new values and experiences while maintaining high standards of quality.

About Ethical Spirits

Ethical Spirits was founded in 2020 with the vision of harnessing underutilized ingredients. Their mission is to craft unique spirits that reflect a commitment to sustainability and community culture. They continue to explore innovative ways to create value through the art of distillation. For more information, visit their official site Ethical Spirits.

For more details about the 'Spirits of Terroir' and the upcoming launch, please check the official online store here.