— Only 100 Bottles Available
Japanese sake brand “SAKE HUNDRED” will launch “MIKKA,” a collaborative sparkling sake created with Gucci Giardino—the only GUCCI-affiliated bar in Japan—on June 3. Priced at 198,000 yen, the product will be available in a strictly limited run of 100 bottles, offered exclusively at Gucci Giardino and Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura Tokyo.
Born from Three Years of Development: The Story Behind “MIKKA”
“MIKKA” was crafted under the concept of “A brilliant fusion of tradition and innovation, radiating with rich aromas.” The product was developed in collaboration with Nagai Sake Brewery, located in Kawaba Village, Gunma Prefecture. SAKE HUNDRED meticulously designed the details based on the taste profiles and concepts envisioned by Gucci Giardino, bringing the product to fruition after more than three years of rigorous development.
This masterfully crafted sake is a blend of three distinct components: SAKE HUNDRED’s 15-year ice-temperature aged vintage sake, “REHIBI,” and two newly brewed sparkling sakes produced at the same brewery using the “secondary in-bottle fermentation” method. The profound character characteristic of “REHIBI”—achieved through advanced techniques like ultra-long aging at freezing temperatures, French oak barrel storage, and multiple-layered brewing—forms the structural core of “MIKKA.” By adding orizake (freshly pressed sake with sediment) to this base, a second fermentation is stimulated inside the bottle, producing delicate and silky bubbles. This is further complemented by the bright, refreshing flavors brought by the fresh, newly brewed sake, resulting in a multi-layered, deeply complex flavor profile.
Upon the release, Ryuji Ikoma, founder and owner of SAKE HUNDRED, commented: “Words cannot fully express the joy of aligning with the aesthetic spirit embodied by Gucci to co-create this remarkable bottle. I am deeply proud that Japanese sake stands at the very intersection where tradition and innovation meet.” Noriyoshi Nagai, the 6th-generation head of Nagai Sake Brewery, also expressed strong confidence in the creation, stating: “We have deeply resonated with the history and aesthetics of Gucci, achieving a one-of-a-kind texture and elegance. We are thrilled to deliver a masterpiece that challenges and redefines the value of Japanese sake.”
A Harmony of Crisp Freshness and Toasty Richness
The flavor profile is characterized by a sweet, butter-like aroma intertwined with the crisp freshness of mint and the toasty richness of roasted nuts. Fine and persistent carbonation delivers a silky-smooth texture on the palate, imparting a beautifully structured, clean impression overall. The finish leads into a delicate bitterness grounded by gentle, well-balanced acidity, creating a deep and lingering aftertaste.
In terms of pairing, it harmonizes excellently with rich, flavorful ingredients such as sea urchin (uni), truffles, abalone, and lobster. It also complements seafood-based Italian dishes, spicy tomato sauces, and cream-based sauces. Furthermore, it pairs wonderfully with dishes that serve as substantial main courses.
To fully experience the delicate bubbles in their finest condition, it is highly recommended to consume the sake immediately after uncorking. The ideal serving temperature is 6°C (approx. 43°F), and the use of vintage champagne flutes or small white wine glasses is highly recommended. While it is exceptionally delicious and ready to drink at the time of purchase, cellaring it at low temperatures for 1 to 2 years allows the flavors to mature, offering a delightful evolution of deeper, more profound umami.
