Yamanashi Meijo, which distributes the Japanese sake "Shichiken" brand in nine countries and regions overseas, has jointly developed a new product, "Alan Ducasse Sparkling Sake," with French culinary master Alain Ducasse.

"Alan Ducasse Sparkling Sake" was jointly developed with inspiration drawn from the Mediterranean, the "terroir of the heart" for Alain Ducasse.

Under the direction of Gérard Margeon, Chef Sommelier at Ducasse Paris, who strongly wished to connect the spirit of the Mediterranean with Yamanashi, and after numerous exchanges of opinions, they adopted the method of Kijoshu (a rich sake brewing technique where sake replaces water in the final stage), which undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, just like champagne, and is luxuriously brewed using sake instead of water. This resulted in the development of a sparkling sake aged in cherry barrels, a highly unusual practice.

While sake is typically known to be made from water, rice, and yeast, the Kijoshu method adopted here is a luxurious process where sake is used in place of water in the final stage. Through aging in cherry barrels and other processes, it has been finished with a unique flavor profile that pairs well with French cuisine.

Upon tasting, a rich, refreshing effervescence, rooted in the waters of Yamanashi and inspired by the Mediterranean, carries an aroma with hints of cherry. Waves of subtle bitterness and sweetness, characteristic of barrel aging, wash over the palate, unfolding a flavor profile befitting a celebratory toast.

"Alan Ducasse Sparkling Sake" will be offered as a "toast" at Ducasse Paris restaurants worldwide, beginning with its debut at the two-Michelin-starred "Benoit" in Aoyama and the two-Michelin-starred "Beige Alain Ducasse Tokyo" in Ginza starting in late April.

It is also available for general purchase on the Shichiken online shop from April 29 (Thursday), as well as at retailers such as Isetan Shinjuku.

"Alan Ducasse Sparkling Sake" offers an exquisite balance of pure water and the umami of rice, combined with elegance. It is an innovative sake that aims to be a catalyst for transforming sake culture, reflecting Shichiken's pursuit of a delicate balance between elegance and refinement.