Series: Japanese Sake and Joy | Part 28: A Journey to Savile Row, England - Ryoyu Brewery
Visiting London for Sake Promotion
A Savile Row Sojourn in England: Ryoyu Brewery
I am Akito Kondo of Ryoyu Brewery, which brews the sake "Mikotsuru." Recently, I participated in sake promotions and events held in the UK. My image of England is not of "tea" or "London taxis," but as the second homeland of the esteemed Jin Saburo.
Text by Wajo WarakuPhoto by JAMANDFIX(TOP)
A Tie and Belt from the Same Shop as My Idol, Jin Saburo
I was captivated by Jin Saburo's character after reading his books and watching his DVDs. In one of those books, I learned about a tailor shop on London's Savile Row (said to be the origin of the word "suit") with a connection to Jin Saburo, and decided to visit it this time.
The shop was located on a street just behind New Bond Street, lined with brand stores. Taking a deep breath before the door of the shop named 'HENRY POOLE&Co.,' I entered. They only sold ready-made ties and belts! All suits and shirts were by bespoke order only! Although there were four of us, the atmosphere suggested we had wandered in by mistake. I inquired about the prices for custom orders in my broken, rudimentary English.
I believe they said something like, "Suits start from around 2,500 pounds? It depends on the fabric and style." I almost gave up and left, as no one in our group spoke English fluently. However, the owner was a very kind person and listened patiently to my poor English. I took the opportunity to introduce myself, saying, "I'm in London for a sake promotion!" He, of course, knew of Jin Saburo and told me, "The jacket on display is the same style as the one Shirasu wore." Wanting to buy something, I purchased a navy tie and belt. They were original items with the shop's name clearly marked!
I absolutely love the tie and belt from the same shop as my idol, Jin Saburo. It brings me more joy than owning several luxury brand items from Louis Vuitton or Gucci, and somehow makes me feel more put-together. I suppose this is true added value.
I've decided that I will definitely order a double-breasted suit from this shop. To wear it stylishly, I aim to thoroughly diet my flabby stomach and get one step closer to Jin Saburo. (Akito Kondo, President and Toji, Ryoyu Brewery Co., Ltd.)
Ryoyu Brewery
http://www.mikotsuru.com/
Win Mikotsuru Junmai Daiginjo Yamada Nishiki 45%
We are giving away a 720mL bottle of sake, featured in each installment of the "Wajo Waraku SAKE Academy" series, to three lucky winners.
If you wish to enter, please apply via the form below.
Winners will be contacted directly.
Application Period: October 8, 2010 (Fri) - October 29, 2010 (Fri, 12:00 PM)
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