Redefines World Martini Day with timeless cocktails made with Roku Gin & Haku Vodka

Carol Lam

The martini, a timeless classic, has always embodied sophistication and style. As World Martini Day approaches on 17 June, The House of Suntory is embarking on a month-long celebration with two of their signature premium craft spirits.

A flawless martini hinges on the excellence of its two fundamental components: the quality of the spirits. While traditionally crafted with gin, the martini also embraces vodka as a versatile alternative, making it the perfect canvas to showcase the exceptional Roku Gin and Haku Vodka. Both spirits lend themselves to create remarkable martinis, serving as the foundation for talented bartenders to infuse their creative twists into the classic cocktail.

Roku Gin: Crafted with six Japanese botanicals

Crafted with utmost precision, The House of Suntory’s esteemed Roku Gin harmoniously blends six traditional Japanese botanicals—Sakura flower, Sakura leaf, Sencha, Gyokuro tea, Sansho pepper, and yuzu peel—each meticulously harvested at the peak of their seasons, resulting in a complex and layered flavour profile that elevates the martini to unparalleled heights.

Haku Vodka: Purity and brilliance from Japanese rice

On the other hand, Haku Vodka is an embodiment of purity, crafted entirely from 100% pure Hakumai Japanese rice and meticulously filtered through bamboo charcoal. The result is a vodka of pristine brilliance, boasting a clean profile with a delightful hint of sweet rice flavour. Its smooth finish and lingering sweetness enhance the martini’s innate elegance, promising an indulgent and glamorous drinking experience.

In collaboration with 14 esteemed bars throughout Klang Valley, Johor Bahru, and Penang, The House of Suntory invites cocktail lovers to celebrate World Martini Day through their tastefully curated extraordinary collection of martini concoctions featuring Roku Gin and Haku Vodka from 12 June to 28 July.

Each establishment will showcase their own unique interpretation of the martini, from Concierge’s tribute to James’ take on Not Stirred Umami Vesper, Good Friends Club oriental twist like the Luo Han Guo Martinez to Archipelago’s homage to the king of fruits – the Durian Martini.

Discover the full line up of participating venues below and embark on a captivating journey as you explore the sleek and alluring martini in its endless variations :

KLANG VALLEY

PS 150

Take a walk down old Chinatown into PS150 and immerse yourself in a martini journey reflecting the exceptional craftsmanship and innovative flavour combinations. Start with the Autre Temps (RM 50) martini, a captivating blend balancing the floral notes of Roku Gin with the unique character of Tuak and the subtle sweetness of Maraschino, complemented by the refreshing zest of Grapefruit Bitters. For a playful twist, indulge in the Orrzy Martini (RM 50), a creamy creation harmonising the smoothness of Haku Vodka with the rich, chocolatey flavors of Bailey’s and the irresistible crunch of Oreo, resulting in a nostalgic yet sophisticated treat for the senses. Finally, experience the Emerald Sour (RM 50) martini, a refreshing delight crafted the floral essence of Chrysanthemum fusing seamlessly with the vibrant sweetness of Midori, balanced by the tartness of Lemon and the gentle touch of Sugar Syrup, creating a vibrant and uplifting martini that exudes elegance.

Location & Reservation

  • Ground Floor, 150, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
  • t: +603 7622 8777
  • https://www.ps150.my/

IKIYA 2.0

Ikiya 2.0’s martinis take centre stage, embodying the creativity and artistry that elevates the martini experience to new heights. The Lychee (RM 48) martini greets you with a delightful combination of Roku Gin, Lychee, Absinthe, and a touch of Citric, resulting in a refreshing and aromatic masterpiece. Indulge in the Sweet Potato (RM 48) martini, a unique creation crafted with Haku Vodka, Imo Shochu, Dry Vermouth, and the essence of Sweet Potato, accentuated by a hint of olive brine for a savoury twist that tantalizes the taste buds. For an exotic twist, relish the Kiwi (RM 48) martini, a fusion of Haku Vodka, Sake, Kiwi, Citric Acid, Chile Pepper Liqueur, and Aromatic Bitters. This vibrant cocktail combines the sweetness of Kiwi with a subtle kick from the Chile Pepper Liqueur, harmonizing beautifully with the smoothness of Haku Vodka and the complexity of Sake.

Location & Reservations

Remedy

Discover an extraordinary selection of martinis at Remedy. The Suikawari (RM 50) martini is a harmonious blend of Haku Vodka, Clarified Watermelon Juice, Cacao Blanc, and Chocolate Extract. Indulge in the tantalizing Wafuku (RM55) martini, featuring Roku Gin, Midori, Bitters, and Lillet Blanc, which effortlessly combines traditional Japanese flavours with a modern twist. Experience the invigorating Yuzu Ame (RM 48) martini, crafted with Roku Gin, Yuzu Syrup, Lemon Juice, Egg White, and a hint of Matcha, creating a citrusy and velvety sensation.

Location & Reservations

Xun Bar

At Xun Bar each martini is crafted with perfection, promising a delightful journey of flavours with every sip. Indulge in a timeless tipple, the Espresso Martini (RM42), enticing with a combination of Haku Vodka, Bailey’s, and Cold Brew Coffee, delivering a smooth and invigorating experience. For those seeking a classic choice, the Dry Martini (RM 40) presents a perfect harmony of Roku Gin, Dry Vermouth, and a garnish of olives, showcasing the essence of simplicity and sophistication. Elevate your morning with the Breakfast Martini (RM 45) featuring Roku Gin, Triple Sec, Lemon Juice, and a delightful touch of Orange Jam, offering a zesty and revitalizing start to your day.

Location & Reservations

Wildflowers

The martini selection at Wildflowers promises an extraordinary and captivating taste adventure, blooming with vibrant flavours and entrancing aromas. The Silver Spirit (RM 45) is a mesmerizing blend of Roku Gin, Butterfly Pea Lillet Blanc, Umeshu, and Sake, offering a delicate balance of floral and fruity notes that will transport you to a realm of elegance. Immerse yourself in the refreshing embrace of the Green Spot (RM 45), an exquisite fusion of Roku Gin, Midori, Shochu, Orange Curaçao, and Clarified Lemon, delivering a burst of green goodness and a hint of citrusy zest. For a truly divine experience, savour the Blooming Vesper (RM 45), featuring Haku Vodka, Elderflower, Clarified Lemon, Honey, and Sake, intertwining sweet and tangy flavours with a touch of floral allure.

Location & Reservations

Conceirge/Jao Tim

Welcome to Concierge, where martinis are elevated to new heights of sophistication and complexity. Indulge in the tantalizing Oliver Twist (RM 47), a masterful concoction of Roku Gin, Italicus, Dry Vermouth, Lemon Bitters, and Olive Bitters, harmonizing herbal and citrusy notes with a touch of bitterness for a truly captivating experience. Prepare your taste buds for the Ume Martinez (RM 47), a delightful fusion of Roku Gin, Punt e Mes Vermouth, Smoked Tea Plum Wine, Maraschino Liqueur, and Boker’s Bitters, boasting a mesmerizing blend of sweet, smoky, and fruity flavors that dance on the palate. For a unique twist on a classic, savour the Not Stirred Umami Vesper (RM 47), featuring Roku Gin, Sun Dried Tomato Infused Haku Vodka, Lillet Blanc, Cucumber Water, and Grapefruit Bitters, offering a refreshing and savoury combination with a hint of tanginess.

Location & Reservations

Pahit

Walk into the world of refined martini craftsmanship at Pahit, where martinis are transformed into extraordinary libations that will captivate your senses. Experience the invigorating Yuzu (RM 50) martini, expertly blended with Roku Gin, Dry Vermouth, Sherry, and a touch of Japanese Yuzu Bitters, delivering a citrusy zest that awakens the senses. For a martini that embodies perfection, indulge in the Perfect Martini (RM 50), featuring Haku Vodka, Dolin Dry Vermouth, Sweet Vermouth, and a delightful twist of The Japanese Bitters Yuzu, resulting in a harmonious balance of sweet and dry profiles. Delve into the captivating allure of the Ginger (RM 50) martini, a captivating fusion of Roku Gin, Dolin Dry Vermouth, The Japanese Bitters Umami, and the tantalizing essence of Pickled Ginger Juice, where the subtle heat and umami flavours mingle in perfect harmony.

Location & Reservations

Frank’s

Martinis take on a new level of sophistication and intrigue here at Frank’s. Begin your evening with the Beautiful Monday Morning (RM 50) martini, a delightful concoction of Haku Vodka, Frangelico liqueur, Borghetti coffee, and a luscious Pistachio Paste, offering a smooth and indulgent start to your week. For a unique twist on a classic, try the Not “Dirty” (RM 50) martini, featuring Haku Vodka, Salted Tomato with Basil Bianco, and a touch of Saline Solution, creating a tantalizing blend of savoury and salty flavours that will leave your palate craving for more. Finally, enjoy the refreshing notes of the Big Apple (RM 50) martini, crafted with Roku Gin, Cointreau, and the delicate essence of Apple Tea Bianco, capturing the essence of crisp apples in every sip.

Location & Reservations

PENANG

Archipelago

Archipelago in Penang offers a delightful array of martinis that will transport your taste buds to new heights. The Aki (RM 50) martini tantalizes with a harmonious blend of Roku Gin, Haku Vodka, Lillet Blanc, Umeshu, and a touch of seaweed, resulting in a unique and refreshing flavour profile that captures the essence of the ocean. For the adventurous and daring, the Durian Martini (RM 50) presents a fusion of Roku Gin, Durian Vodka, and Dry Vermouth, creating an intriguing combination that showcases the exotic flavours of the renowned Malaysian fruit. Indulge your senses with the Gula Melaka Creme Brulee Martini (RM 50), where Roku Gin, advocaat, and caramel harmonize in perfect balance, offering a luscious and decadent treat reminiscent of the beloved dessert.

Location & Reservations

Good Friends Club

Immerse yourself in the vibrant and eclectic flavours of the Good Friends Club in Penang (PG), where martinis take centre stage. First up is the Bamboo Ma(r)tini (RM 45), a captivating blend of Haku Vodka, Bamboo Cane, Water Chestnut, Pandan, Dry Vermouth, and a hint of Lemon Grass, resulting in a harmonious fusion of Asian flavours that’s both refreshing and invigorating. The next creation, the Luo Han Guo Martinez (RM45), showcases Roku Gin, Monk fruit, Longan-infused Maraschino Liqueur, Rosso Vermouth, Fernet Branca, and Lychee, combining the unique sweetness of monk fruit with the lusciousness of lychee to create an enchanting martini experience. Lastly, indulge in the Hokasai Martini (RM45), featuring Haku Vodka infused with local coffee and local cacao, complemented by the richness of Guinness Stout Syrup and a delightful Parmesan Cheese Cracker garnish, delivering a perfect balance of bold flavours and creative craftsmanship.

Location & Reservations

 Backdoor Bodega

Experience the essence of summer with the Suntory Summer (RM 55), an exquisite blend of Roku Gin, Oolong Tea, luscious Strawberry, and a touch of Dry Vermouth. Let the flavours transport you to sun-drenched beaches and tropical paradise. For a bold and intriguing choice, indulge in the Dirty Apples (RM 55) martini, featuring Roku Gin, the distinct tang of Roquefort, crisp Granny Smith apples, crunchy Walnut, and a dash of Dry Vermouth, resulting in a delightful balance of savoury and sweet notes that tantalize the palate. The Vesper Martini (RM 60) showcases the harmonious fusion of Roku Gin, Haku Vodka, Lillet Blanc, and Cinchona, creating a refined and sophisticated cocktail that pays homage to the classic Martini while adding a modern twist. At Backdoor Bodega, each martini is a masterpiece crafted with precision and passion, inviting you to savour the artistry and creativity in every sip.

Location & Reservations

JOHOR BAHRU

Cabinet 8

Step into the sophisticated ambiance of Cabinet 8 in Johor Bahru and indulge in a collection of martinis that push the boundaries of flavour and innovation. The Mar-Tea-Ni (RM 50) combines the floral notes of Roku Gin with the delicate bitterness of Dry Vermouth, enhanced by the richness of Umami Bitter and the aromatic Gyokuro Tea, resulting in a harmonious fusion of botanical and tea flavours that captivate the senses. Delve into the intriguing depths of the BBM (RM 50) martini, where Roku Gin meets the tropical allure of Malibu and the unique Bambangan Tincture, creating a medley of exotic tastes that transport you to a tropical paradise. For a truly remarkable experience, savour the AMBRA Vesper (RM50), an exquisite blend of Roku Gin, the luxurious AMBRA infused Haku Vodka, the subtle sweetness of Pear Bianco, and a touch of Yogurt, combining to create a velvety-smooth martini that delights the palate with its creamy and fruity undertones.

Location & Reservations

 Haiiro Usagi

Embark on a sensory adventure at Haiiro Usagi in Johor Bahru (JB) and discover a tantalizing selection of martinis that showcase the artistry of mixology. The Strawberry Park (RM 55) martini tantalizes the taste buds with the lusciousness of Strawberry infused Haku Vodka, the velvety allure of White Cacao Liqueur, and the delicate sweetness of Honey Syrup, all beautifully complemented by the refreshing notes of Apple Flavoured Cultured Milk and the creamy richness of Coconut Cream. In the Botanical Garden (RM 55) martini, the delicate aromas of Jasmine infused Roku Gin and Jasmine infused Orange Liqueur intermingle, harmonizing with the invigorating essence of Melon Water and the zesty tang of Fresh Lemon Juice, creating a botanical symphony that transports you to a lush garden oasis. Prepare to be captivated by the Paddy Fields (RM 55) martini, a captivating blend of Roku Gin, Haku Vodka, and Sake, elevated by a carefully balanced saline and MSG mixture that adds a unique umami element, transporting you to the serene landscapes of Japanese rice fields.

Location & Reservations

Shui 水Bar

Experience the enchanting world of mixology at Shui Bar in Johor Bahru (JB), where an array of captivating martinis awaits your palate. Delight your senses with the Parfum (RM 60) martini, a symphony of flavours brought to life by Roku Gin infused with aromatic Sansho Pepper, Palo Santo, and Vetiver, all elegantly balanced with the subtle sweetness of Maraschino. Indulge in the Taste of the Sea (RM 50) martini, an extraordinary creation that blends the unique essence of Roku Gin with the smoky notes of Lacto Smoked Orange and the vibrant freshness of Tomato, culminating in an ethereal Sea Urchin Air that transports you to the ocean’s depths. For a captivating visual and flavour experience, savour the Black + White (RM 50) martini, where the smoothness of Haku Vodka is enhanced by the delicate sweetness of Amazake, while Burnt Leek adds a touch of complexity and Charcoal imparts a striking monochromatic allure.

Locations & Reservations

There you go the 14  esteemed bars throughout Klang Valley, Johor Bahru, and Penang, for cocktail lovers to celebrate World Martini Day with tastefully curated collection of martini concoctions featuring Roku Gin and Haku Vodka from 12 June to 28 July.

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