No One Consumes Ruinart Like I Do

'You found me, didn't you? I doubt there's anyone in Japan who can speak about Ruinart more passionately than I can. Or rather, even if there are people who can speak about it, I doubt anyone consumes as much Ruinart as I do.'

Osamu Shigematsu, founder and honorary chairman of United Arrows, said with a hearty laugh. It was a radiant smile befitting a fashion legend and celebrity.

'I've been drinking Champagne privately for nearly 40 years, since 1980. Since opening the first United Arrows store in 1990, all our company anniversaries and events have been celebrated with Champagne. We offer only two types of beverages at our receptions: Champagne or water.'

It is said that Shigematsu, a devoted Champagne lover, has been favoring Ruinart for the past few years.

'I drink nothing but Champagne now, besides sake. I enjoy drinks that uplift the spirit and elevate my mood. Red wine, for instance, becomes too heavy after a while. I fell for Ruinart simply because it's delicious. Its crispness is superb. And it's consistent. Unwavering as a Champagne. I appreciate that I can drink it with complete confidence.'

But why were you so drawn to Champagne in the first place? Was there a particular trigger?

'Ah, that's very clear. It was in New York in 1980. When I went for my usual buying trip, Katsuhiro Yoshida, who was then a designer for Yoshida & Co., was holding an exhibition there. We decided to have dinner together, and ended up going to 'Peter Luger Steak House' in Brooklyn. A limousine arranged by his friend was waiting, chilled with Champagne. I believe actress Margot Kidder, who played the heroine in the movie 'Superman' released the previous year, might have been with us. In any case, the Champagne we drank in that limousine was so delicious. It became an unforgettable drink.'
'It became an unforgettable drink.'

So you've remained loyal to Champagne ever since. By the way, was Champagne already popular in Tokyo in the 1980s?

'Surprisingly, I found that even in Tokyo, discerning establishments surprisingly stocked it. I only realized this after returning from New York. However, I still don't think it's particularly popular. I drink Champagne with sushi, and with Japanese cuisine, so I always check if Ruinart is available when making a reservation. If not, I bring my own in a cooler bag. Though now, restaurants tend to stock it when they know I'm coming.'

Cultivating More Ruinart Fans

Where have you recently savored the delights of Ruinart?

'There's a members-only horse meat specialty restaurant. I'm not a member, but I go about twice a month. I bring my own Ruinart. They only allow two guests. Well, it's so delicious that every guest I bring praises it immensely. And at the same time, I'm rapidly converting them into Ruinart fans (laughs).'

Ruinart, praised as a 'jewel' for its elegant and refined taste and beautiful color, is produced by a historic maison with a unique legacy. This oldest Champagne house in the world is dedicated to the refinement of Chardonnay, bottling the 'art of Chardonnay' through traditional methods.

Meanwhile, 'Junrian,' produced by Shigematsu and opened last year, also selects exquisite items honed over centuries through Japanese tradition.

Do you find yourself drawn to Ruinart because of its traditional charm, cultivated over centuries?

'No, above all else, it's because it's delicious. Even when other brands of Champagne are served at company events, I have Ruinart in my dressing room. I've been drinking Champagne continuously since '80, and Ruinart is my current conclusion. It's not a matter of logic, you see.'

RUINART BLANC DE BLANCS
A representative Champagne embodying the taste of Ruinart. Made exclusively from Chardonnay, it is described as the 'white of whites,' characterized by its elegant, refined, and pure flavor.
Suggested Retail Price: 750ml ¥10,200 (excluding tax)

Alcohol is for individuals aged 20 and over. Drunk driving is prohibited by law. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy or breastfeeding may adversely affect fetal and infant development. Please enjoy alcohol responsibly and in moderation.