Keanu Izakaya Riga

Yukio Yuzu Gin at Keanu — Japanese Craftsmanship with a Bright Citrus Soul

Some spirits are simply ingredients for cocktails. Others have enough character to be enjoyed on their own.

Yukio Yuzu Gin is one of them.

Crafted in Japan, it brings together the crisp character of traditional gin with the unmistakable aroma of yuzu — Japan’s iconic citrus fruit. Bright, fragrant, and beautifully balanced, it’s a spirit that reflects the Japanese approach to craftsmanship: simple, precise, and never excessive.

At Keanu, we love its versatility. Enjoy it neat, over ice, or discover it in two of our signature cocktails — Kyoto Blossom and Lust Negroni, where its fresh citrus profile adds depth without overpowering the other ingredients.

What Makes Yukio Yuzu Gin Special?

At the heart of this gin is yuzu, a citrus fruit that has been used in Japanese cuisine for centuries.

Unlike lemon or lime, yuzu has a more complex aroma — fresh and vibrant, yet soft, floral, and slightly herbal at the same time. It’s this balance that makes it such a perfect match for gin.

Rather than masking the botanicals, yuzu enhances them, creating a spirit that is refreshing, elegant, and incredibly smooth.

Tasting Notes

Expect a bright and aromatic profile with:

fresh yuzu zest
classic juniper
delicate botanical notes
a silky texture
a clean, citrus-forward finish

It’s light enough to enjoy before dinner, yet complex enough to appreciate sip by sip.

Perfect with Japanese Cuisine

The vibrant citrus notes of Yukio Yuzu Gin pair naturally with Japanese dishes.

It complements sashimi, sushi, grilled seafood, yakitori, and light appetizers, enhancing delicate flavours without overwhelming them.

Whether enjoyed on its own or alongside food, it’s a spirit that brings freshness and balance to the table.

How We Serve It at Keanu

At Keanu, you can enjoy Yukio Yuzu Gin exactly the way you like it.

Drink it neat to appreciate its pure character, serve it over ice for a refreshing sip, or try it in one of our signature cocktails.

Kyoto Blossom highlights its delicate floral and citrus notes, while Lust Negroni offers a richer, more complex take on the classic cocktail, with Yukio Yuzu Gin adding brightness and elegance to every sip.

Why Try Yukio Yuzu Gin?

Authentic Japanese craft gin
Infused with aromatic yuzu citrus
Fresh, smooth and beautifully balanced
Available neat or in our signature cocktails
A perfect match for Japanese cuisine

Conclusion

Yukio Yuzu Gin captures the essence of modern Japanese craftsmanship—refined, balanced, and full of character.

Whether you prefer to enjoy it on its own or experience it through Kyoto Blossom or Lust Negroni, it’s a refreshing way to discover one of Japan’s most distinctive spirits at Keanu Izakaya.