Authentic gin cocktails from the world-renowned “Nozawa Onsen Distillery” will soon be available at Lawson (a major Japanese convenience store chain) across Japan. Starting March 24, 2026, the premium canned gin cocktail series “COCO de BAR” will be released nationwide. This product allows you to experience the taste of a professional bar right at your local konbini (convenience store).
World-Recognized Quality from Nozawa Onsen Distillery
Nozawa Onsen Distillery is located in Nozawa Onsen Village, Nagano Prefecture, a famous ski resort and hot spring destination. Since its opening in December 2022, it has won over 20 awards in international spirits competitions in just a short period.
At the 2023 “San Francisco World Spirits Competition,” all four of its craft gin entries were awarded Gold Medals. It was also selected for the “Best Newcomer” award at the “Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition,” proving its world-class status.
The distillery’s defining characteristic is its use of pure snowmelt water from Nozawa Onsen and high-quality botanicals (plants) sourced from Nagano. The distillery itself, housed in a renovated historic cannery, tells a story of deep respect for local culture.
In addition to its four flagship products like “NOZAWA GIN,” the distillery offers a lineup reflecting Japanese culture, including products inspired by the “Dosojin Matsuri” (a traditional fire festival and local custom).
“COCO de BAR”: An Authentic Bar Experience at Your Local Konbini
The second collaboration with Lawson introduces the “COCO de BAR” gin cocktail series. The concept is “An authentic bar experience found at a convenience store.”
The culture of enjoying craft gin on a daily basis is growing in Japan. This series was developed with the wish for people to enjoy the highest quality Gin and Tonic at home or outdoors without having to visit a bar. Using Nozawa Onsen Distillery’s craft gin as a base, it is a premium series that incorporates flavors reflecting the Japanese seasons.
Spicy and Dry: “COCO de Shikkwa-sa Gin Tonic”
The first product is “COCO de Shikkwa-sa Gin Tonic,” characterized by its sharp and crisp flavor.
- Product Name: COCO de Shikkwa-sa Gin Tonic
- Volume: 350ml (approx. 11.8 fl oz) (Can)
- Suggested Retail Price: 385 yen (approx. $2.55 USD, including tax)
- Alcohol Content: 6%
- Features: Acidity of Shikkwa-sa combined with the spice of Sansho
Shikkwa-sa is a citrus fruit with a refreshing acidity popular in southern Japan. By adding the light stimulation of Sansho (Japanese pepper), the sweetness is suppressed to create a dry finish, making it an ideal pairing for meals.
Elegantly Fragrant: “COCO de White Peach Gin Tonic”
The second product is “COCO de White Peach Gin Tonic,” known for its elegant aroma.
- Product Name: COCO de White Peach Gin Tonic
- Volume: 350ml (approx. 11.8 fl oz) (Can)
- Suggested Retail Price: 385 yen (approx. $2.55 USD, including tax)
- Alcohol Content: 6%
- Features: Sweetness of White Peach and the floral scent of cherry blossom leaves
This drink combines the soft sweetness of Japanese White Peach with the delicate fragrance of cherry blossom leaves. Its fruity and floral flavor profile is particularly approachable for those who don’t drink often or the younger generation.
Bringing the Blessings of Nozawa Onsen to All of Japan
The quality of Nozawa Onsen Distillery is supported by the pure water obtained from spring spots scattered throughout the village. This initiative with Lawson is a major challenge to bring an excellent regional craft brand to the entire nation.
The distillery is also expanding its production of single malt whisky, with a release scheduled for 2026. Expectations are high for their future developments.
The “COCO de BAR” series will be available at Lawson and Natural Lawson stores nationwide (at locations that carry alcohol).
The launch date is March 24, 2026. We invite you to experience the taste of world-class Japanese craft gin at your nearest convenience store.
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