![[Complete Guide] Black Organization Members and Their Codenames Explained](https://detectivenewshub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Explore-01-e1744447623232.png)
Unravel the mystery behind the coolest—and deadliest—names in Detective Conan.
Who Are the Black Organization? An Introduction for Conan Fans
“Black Iron Submarine” (C) 2023 Gosho Aoyama / DETECTIVE CONAN COMMITTEE
The Black Organization is one of the most iconic and mysterious villain groups in anime history. In Detective Conan, they are the masterminds behind many of the series’ most critical events—including the transformation of Shinichi Kudo into a child using the deadly poison APTX 4869.
Operating in the shadows, the Black Organization specializes in high-level crimes like assassinations, intelligence leaks, and underground research. Despite their frequent appearances, their true objectives and hierarchy remain largely unknown, adding to their menace and mystique.
One of the group’s most distinctive traits is its use of alcohol-based codenames. Members like Gin, Vodka, and Vermouth don’t go by their real names, creating an extra layer of secrecy and style. These names aren’t randomly assigned—they often carry meaning tied to the character’s personality, role, or even fate.
Why Alcohol? The Logic Behind the Codenames
One of the most unique features of the Black Organization is how every core member uses an alcohol-related codename.
Why alcohol?
Creator Gosho Aoyama has shared that these names were chosen partly because they sound cool and are easy to remember. But fans have long believed there’s more depth behind this naming convention.
Many of these names symbolically match each character’s personality or narrative role:
- Gin – cold, sharp, and emotionless.
- Vermouth – seductive, mysterious, and layered.
- Bourbon – refined, resilient, and strategic.
A noticeable pattern also exists:
- Men typically receive names from hard liquors (e.g., Gin, Vodka, Bourbon, Rye, Scotch).
- Women often get names from liqueurs or wine-based drinks (e.g., Vermouth, Kir, Sherry).
This naming system enhances the storytelling by giving characters an air of danger, elegance, or unpredictability before we even learn who they truly are.
Key Members and the Meaning Behind Their Codenames
Here’s a closer look at the core members of the Black Organization and how their codenames reflect their identities:
Gin
A top enforcer, Gin is known for his brutal efficiency and icy demeanor. His name suits his personality—gin is a clear, sharp spirit often associated with coldness and precision.
“The Raven Chaser” (C) 2009 Gosho Aoyama / DETECTIVE CONAN COMMITTEE
Vodka
Loyal to Gin and less calculating, Vodka plays the role of a trusted sidekick. Like the drink itself, he’s straightforward and strong.
Vermouth
A master of disguise and manipulation, Vermouth walks a fine line between ally and enemy. Her codename represents complexity and intrigue—vermouth is aromatic and layered, much like her character.
“Black Iron Submarine” (C) 2023 Gosho Aoyama / DETECTIVE CONAN COMMITTEE
Rum
The second-in-command of the Organization, Rum is shrouded in mystery for much of the series. As a drink, rum is strong, aged, and commanding—traits fitting a powerful leader.
Sherry (Ai Haibara)
Originally a scientist in the Organization, Sherry defected after personal loss and now hides as Ai Haibara. The name reflects her strength and hidden sweetness—sherry is fortified, complex, and often bittersweet.
Used vs. Unused Codenames: Patterns and Significance
While many Black Organization members have made full appearances, others are known only by name, or have since died or vanished. Still, each codename plays a role in shaping the mythos of the Organization.
Active & Known Codenames:
- Gin
- Vodka
- Vermouth
- Rum
- Kir (CIA agent Rena Mizunashi)
- Bourbon (Public Security Bureau agent Rei Furuya)
Former / Deceased:
- Sherry (defected)
- Rye (FBI agent Shuichi Akai, faked his death)
- Tequila (deceased early in the series)
- Pisco (executed for failure)
- Scotch (Public Security Bureau agent who died in the line of duty)
Even unused or retired codenames, like Tequila and Pisco, contribute to the Organization’s mysterious atmosphere. Their brief appearances often leave a lasting impact or serve as pivotal turning points.
Observations:
- Hard liquor = Men
- Liqueur/wine = Women
Spies Among Them: The Double Agents
Some of the most fascinating characters in Detective Conan are those who walk the line between hero and villain. These are undercover agents who infiltrate the Organization and adopt alcohol-themed codenames to protect their cover.
Bourbon (Rei Furuya / Tooru Amuro)
An elite Public Security Bureau (PSB) officer who infiltrates the Organization with intelligence and charisma. His codename represents strength and sophistication.
“Black Iron Submarine” (C) 2023 Gosho Aoyama / DETECTIVE CONAN COMMITTEE
Kir (Rena Mizunashi / Hidemi Hondou)
A CIA agent who works within the Organization as a mole. Her name—from a wine-based cocktail—matches her elegant and calm demeanor.
Rye (Shuichi Akai)
A well-known FBI agent, Akai infiltrated the Organization under the name Rye. The strong, grain-based whiskey mirrors his stoic and resilient nature.
“Black Iron Submarine” (C) 2023 Gosho Aoyama / DETECTIVE CONAN COMMITTEE
Scotch (Hiromitsu Morofushi)
A PSB agent and close friend of Bourbon, Scotch’s story ends in tragedy when he takes his own life to protect others. His name reflects strength and emotional depth.
These double agents not only add suspense to the plot but also show the dangers of deception and loyalty. Their codenames carry emotional weight and narrative significance.
Final Thoughts: What the Codenames Tell Us
The use of alcohol-based codenames in Detective Conan isn’t just clever wordplay. It’s a narrative device that gives each character texture, identity, and foreshadowing. Whether it’s Gin’s ice-cold precision, Vermouth’s layered mystery, or Rye’s undercover resolve, these names act as signposts for personality and purpose.
They also serve a practical function: reinforcing the Organization’s secretive, elite structure while keeping the audience guessing. When a new codename is revealed, it signals something important is about to unfold.
By decoding the logic and symbolism behind these names, fans can enjoy an even deeper connection to the series. In Detective Conan, a codename is never just a name—it’s a clue.