Matsui "The Hakuto" Gin
Matsui · Matsui Shuzo
Matsui "The Hakuto" Gin is a study in autumnal refinement—fruit-forward yet structurally precise, it captures the golden light of a Japanese orchard in October. Its balance of pear sweetness and botanical depth makes it equally compelling neat or as the spine of a sophisticated cocktail. A gin that rewards patience and quiet sipping.
Nose
A delicate opening of ripe Asian pear and yuzu zest gives way to a gentle wave of juniper and white pepper. Underneath, subtle floral notes of chamomile and dried lavender mingle with a whisper of sandalwood, evoking an autumn garden at twilight.
Palate
Silky and medium-bodied, the palate unfolds with bright citrus and a distinctive sweetness from Tottori's renowned nashi pear, balanced by resinous juniper and a dusting of warming spice. Coriander seed and angelica root provide an earthy, grounding counterpoint, while a ginger snap lingers mid-palate.
Finish
Medium-length and elegantly dry, closing with soft juniper, a brush of white pepper, and a fading trail of pear blossom. Clean and contemplative.
- Style
- Japanese Dry Gin
- Botanicals
- Juniper, coriander, angelica root, nashi pear, ginger, cinnamon, lemon peel, chamomile
- Base Spirit
- Rice spirit
- Distillation
- Pot-distilled with vapor infusion of botanicals including juniper, coriander, angelica, and locally sourced nashi pear
Cocktail Suggestion
October Orchard Collins — 2 oz Matsui "The Hakuto" Gin · 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice · 0.5 oz pear simple syrup · 2 dashes Angostura bitters · Top with chilled soda water · Build in a Collins glass over ice, stir gently, garnish with a thin pear slice and a sprig of thyme
Food Pairing
The gin's delicate pear and ginger notes harmonize beautifully with sweet white miso glaze on tender roasted pork belly, while pickled pear slices echo the spirit's fruit character and add a bright, acidic lift that cuts the richness of the meat.
Named after the famed white rabbit of Tottori legend, The Hakuto Gin channels the prefecture's prized nashi pears and pristine mountain water into a spirit that feels like the first cool breath of autumn descending on the San'in coast.
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