I've Reached an Age Where I Can Appreciate Cognac

The primary reason I accepted this ambassador role is, above all, my love for alcohol, for cognac. I've always been a huge fan of cognac, but I suspect I drank it without truly understanding its flavor. On tours, I'd drink it without a second thought. Now that I've reached sixty, I feel I've finally reached an age where I can truly appreciate it.


Regarding LOUIS XIII, it's simply delicious. It possesses a unique sweetness that I never found in the cognacs I drank when I was younger. And it flows smoothly through the body, leaving nothing superfluous behind. Perhaps this is a sensation I can only savor now. My own music also constantly pursues "quality," and I feel the same spirit in LOUIS XIII. The pursuit itself might involve subtleties that the drinker may or may not perceive. But this is the result of such dedication to quality. It's a gem that I want everyone who has experienced various spirits to taste.

Cognac is Jazz, and...

For me, alcohol is something that enhances the enjoyment of my surroundings. Whether it's listening to music or letting my imagination wander, anything goes. Of course, it's also indispensable for bringing friends and companions together to share the same space. A partner for everyday life, perhaps that's too strong a word? I often drink "grape-based" spirits: Champagne, wine, and cognac. The situations for drinking cognac are varied. It's perfect as a digestif after a meal at a restaurant, or while listening to good music. It's an alcohol to be enjoyed when one feels content. As for music, I lean towards Tony Bennett and jazz. Jazz, not rock. The relaxed feeling of jazz pairs well with cognac.

Nobu Saito's Style: Drinking Cognac on the Rocks

However, I drink cognac not from a brandy snifter, but "straight, on the rocks." Perhaps that's disrespectful to a precious spirit like LOUIS XIII. Diluting it with water might make it easier to drink. But as a musician, I want to experience the aroma and flavor with a bold, "rock" sensibility. Drinking it this way allows me to enjoy both the aroma and the taste simultaneously.


Looking ahead, in 2012, I will be touring with Mari Natsuki for her 60th birthday concerts. It will be a joyous year, a celebration for her.







Nobu Saito

Born November 6, 1950, in Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto. Began studying violin at age three and debuted as a child actor at eleven. Inspired by The Beatles' concert in Japan in 1966, he decided to pursue a career in music and moved to Tokyo the following year. In 1968, he met Iro Natsumi and formed Simon Sai, beginning his career as a percussionist. In 1970, Simon Sai debuted with "Morning Service / Kiri ga Fukai yo." Since then, he has been actively involved in numerous projects, including participation in Tin Pan Alley, Sadistic Mika Band, NOBU-CAINE, Vibes, and Non Chords, as well as collaborating with many other artists. He is currently active with GIBIER du MARIE, fronted by his wife Mari Natsuki, and as a solo artist.