Alain Ducasse and Shichiken’s Sustainable Collaboration
Alain Ducasse, a master of French cuisine, and Shichiken, a traditional Yamanashi brewery established in 1750, have completed a special spirit, Alain Ducasse Sustainable Spirits, as part of an innovative and environmentally friendly initiative. This project is an even more challenging collaboration, following on the heels in 2021 of the sparkling sake “Alain Ducasse Sparkling Sake,” which created a sensation when it was introduced in 2021.
This newly created spirit is made from sake lees, a side product of the sake production process. The alcohol contained in sake lees is distilled and then aged in whiskey barrels at Suntory’s Hakushu Distillery in Hakushu, Japan. The result is a perfect fusion of the fresh aroma derived from ginjo-sake and the mature, mellow flavor unique to whiskey barrels. This spirit can be enjoyed on the rocks, mixed with soda, or as a base for cocktails, and original cocktail recipes are available on a special website.
The major objective behind this project is to establish a recycling-oriented ecosystem based on the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). The sake lees used are reused as feed for Wagyu cattle in Yamanashi Prefecture, and the compost is then returned to farmland, thereby reducing waste of resources. In addition, electricity used in the distillation process is provided by hydroelectric power, a sustainable source of energy, ensuring that the environment is taken into consideration.
In addition, the distillation method is also very innovative. Since it is difficult to retain the delicate aroma of sake through normal distillation methods, Yamanashi Meiio brewery uses a technique called reduced-pressure distillation. This enables alcohol to be extracted at low temperatures, effectively separating the alcohol content while preventing flavor loss due to heating. This innovation enables us to transfer the rich flavor and aroma of sake into the spirit.
This “Alain Ducasse Sustainable Spirits” is highly appreciated not only among a limited number of wealthy people, but also by wine and sake enthusiasts. This gem of Japanese tradition and French elegance will make for a very special experience. The creation of a new form of sake-based spirits is a significant step that could be a new milestone in the beverage industry. (Mr.Bacchus)
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