Roku Gin Presents "Sakura in Bloom”

Roku Gin is set to host a series of intimate events in partnership with popular Asian-fusion bakery Fankery, to celebrate the inaugural release of its limited-edition Sakura Bloom gin.

“Sakura in Bloom” will be a unique experience that embraces the Japanese concept of “shun” – the harvesting of seasonal ingredients at their peak freshness – and invites guests to savour spring with a curated Fankery menu and Roku Sakura Bloom cocktail pairings.

Roku Sakura Bloom gin pays tribute to shun by capturing the essence of Japan’s iconic cherry blossom season - celebrated by the internationally renowned Hanami Festival - by elevating the soft and elegant floral taste of Sakura (cherry blossoms).

The Village, in Herne Bay, will be transformed to reflect Hanami, a brief yet beautiful event that turns Japan into a landscape of colour and fragrance. Lasting just two weeks, this natural spectacle of Sakura in bloom is observed by millions and will be reimagined in the Auckland venue.

Guests at the “Sakura in Bloom” series of events will enjoy a curated three-course menu that embodies the notes of the seasonal release gin, pairing three signature Roku cocktails with dishes designed by Fankery founder and owner Cathy Fan.

Courses will comprise matcha yuzu tart and Sakura cheesecake with mochi (a twist on the dessert for which Fankery is famed), smoked salmon ochazuke (rice topped with green tea and seaweed) and Sakura tiramisu (featuring layers of sponge soaked in Roku Sakura Bloom gin and raspberry compote, wrapped in a chocolate matcha shell).

Each dish is thoughtfully paired with one of three Roku cocktails: the Roku Sakura Gin and Tonic, the Sakura Aperitif (Roku Sakura Bloom, bitter orange liqueur, and cranberry juice), and the Roku Hanami Fizz (Roku Sakura Bloom, lemonade, raspberries and fresh ginger).

KEY INFORMATION

WHAT: Roku Gin Presents “Sakura in Bloom”

WHEN: Saturday October 12th and Sunday October 13th (with sittings at 1pm & 4pm on both days)

WHERE: The Village – 102 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland

TICKET INCLUDES

Three-course food menu partnered with three Roku Gin cocktails

TO NOTE

* Seats will be allocated prior to the event day

* Limited parking is available. Use of services like Uber or public transport is encouraged

* Based on the menu’s seasonality, alternative dietary requirements are not able to be accommodated

* Event is strictly 18+

* Drink Smart®

* Details are correct at the time of publishing – subject to change and availability

* Event tickets are strictly limited and may sell out

* Please be aware that photography and videography will take place during the event. By attending, you consent to being photographed and recorded, and grant permission for these images and videos to be used for promotional purposes.

Host or Publisher Beam Suntory