Suntory Global Spirits has introduced two travel retail exclusives: The House of Suntory Roku Gin Botanical Kasane Edition, inspired by the Japanese art of perfect layering; and Laphroaig 12 Year Old, a new age-statement single malt from the Islay distillery.
Laphroaig 12 Year Old
Islay distillery Laphroaig is launching the travel retail-exclusive 12 Year Old on 1 October. The expression will initially be available exclusively through Gebr. Heinemann’s travel retail network from 1 October to 31 December, before a wider global roll-out in travel retail from 2026.
The launch is supported by a campaign centred around the concept of a ‘smoky beast’. It draws inspiration from the whisky’s signature aromas smoke, sea and apples.
Designed to appeal to both loyal Laphroaig enthusiasts and emerging ‘whisky-curious’ travellers, it aims to broaden Laphroaig’s appeal and reduce barriers to purchase.
Laphroaig 12 Year Old is matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks for two years longer than its 10 Year Old domestic counterpart. Non-chill filtered and bottled at 46% ABV, the whisky has a flavour profile full of sweetness, salt and smoke.
The launch will be supported by a series of high-profile activations throughout October and November at Frankfurt and Munich airports, followed by a major promotion at Vienna Airport from December through January 2026.
Suntory Global Spirits General Manager, GTR Europe and Americas Gareth Jones commented, “The launch of Laphroaig 12 Year Old brings a bold balance of familiarity and discovery to the brand portfolio.
“As the top-selling Islay malt whisky, Laphroaig has long resonated with whisky lovers across the globe, and we believe this new age-statement will hold huge appeal for today’s discerning travelling consumers. We are delighted to partner with Gebr. Heinemann for an exclusive three-month period, ahead of the wider global travel retail release.”
Gebr. Heinemann Heads of Marketing Nadja Gamm and Ann-Kathrin Fürer jointly commented: “We are creating a truly memorable moment for travellers. By bringing Laphroaig 12 Year Old to travel retail first, we are not only offering a unique product but also enhancing the journey itself – turning a purchase into a special experience.
“We deeply value our trusted partnership with Suntory Global Spirits and thank them for their continued confidence in Gebr. Heinemann, which has led to such a remarkable collaboration.”
Laphroaig Master Blender Dr Calum Fraser added: “Laphroaig 12 Year Old is a significant milestone for us. This new whisky embodies the perfect balance between our signature peated intensity and the refined influence of time. We’re very excited to share it with whisky lovers as they travel.”
The House of Suntory Roku Gin Botanical Kasane Edition
Kasane is the Japanese art of layering – a technique that combines colours, textures and shades inspired by the seasons. The Roku Botanical Kasane Edition embodies this art form, layering botanicals for a richer, deeper flavour.
This exclusive expression enhances and builds upon Roku’s six signature Japanese botanicals – Sakura flower and leaf, Sencha and Gyokuro teas, Sansho and Yuzu – all harvested at peak season.
A rice distillate adds a new dimension to the rebalanced botanicals, bringing a layered character and smooth aftertaste resulting in a more intense gin. It is bottled at 47% ABV, compared with 43% ABV for the Roku core expression.
Roku Botanical Kasane Edition has launched this month at Singapore Changi Airport, ahead of a wider roll-out across key airport locations, including Dubai, India, Hong Kong, Taiwan, London and Paris. The launch will be supported by a series of high-profile in-store activations designed to immerse travellers in the Kasane concept.
The activations will include sampling opportunities and a range of luxury branded gifts-with-purchase to elevate the shopping experience.
In addition, The House of Suntory has partnered with Chiso, a traditional Kimono House established in 1555, to design a bespoke label for Roku Botanical Kasane Edition. The label blends heritage craftsmanship with contemporary design, featuring artistic interpretations of Roku’s six botanicals.
“We are proud to introduce this new Roku expression exclusively to our travel retail partners,” commented Suntory Global Spirits Senior Marketing Director for Global Travel Retail Nandini Valio.
“Premium gin remains a high-potential category in the channel, and we believe Roku Botanical Kasane Edition is perfectly positioned to capitalise on this opportunity. This elevated GTR-exclusive is more than just a new expression – it offers a truly special experience that travellers won’t find anywhere else.” ✈
