Experience the Distinct Flavors of Sake with SHUWAN
In the world of Japanese sake, the vessel from which you drink can dramatically alter your experience. SHUWAN, a premium sake vessel brand, is showcasing this concept at the upcoming Lifestyle Week 2025, taking place from July 2 to July 4 at Tokyo Big Sight.
Event Overview
The Lifestyle Week 2025 is one of Japan's largest lifestyle exhibitions, featuring over 1,100 exhibitors and 35,000 products within 11 specialized exhibitions. SHUWAN will present a unique sake tasting event during the show, allowing attendees to experience the difference between drinking the same sake from a wine glass versus a SHUWAN vessel. This interactive experience will demonstrate how the shape, material, and design of a sake vessel can influence aroma and flavor.
A Recap of the Sake Tasting Experience
SHUWAN recently participated in a sake event called "Konsai" in April 2025, where over 90% of participants reported significant differences in taste and aroma between the two types of vessels used. Attendees sampled the same sake, Regulus from Abe Shuzō, in both a traditional wine glass and a SHUWAN vessel. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with comments highlighting the different sensory experiences: "The sweetness was fuller, and the alcohol was barely noticeable" and "The fragrance was markedly distinct."
Scientific Validation of Flavor Change
The results of the tasting experiences align with scientific analyses previously conducted by SHUWAN in collaboration with the Aroma Flavor Strategy Research Institute. Gas chromatography assessments were performed to analyze the aromatic components of two different types of sake served in three types of vessels: a standard ochoko, a wine glass, and a SHUWAN vessel. The sake types included one fruity junmai ginjo and a lively fruity junmai ginjo namazake.
Findings on Aroma Composition
1.
Temporal Measurement of Aroma Components by Vessel
The analysis indicated that, compared to ochoko and wine glasses, the SHUWAN vessel facilitates better circulation and accumulation of aromatic components. This unique design allows the base notes to linger, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
2.
Balancing Volatile Aroma Components
SHUWAN vessels exhibited higher concentrations of pleasant esters, including isopentyl acetate (banana-like aroma) and ethyl caproate (fruity scent). In contrast, undesirable volatile components such as acetic acid and certain ketones were significantly lower compared to the other vessels. This results in a more harmonious flavor profile, where lighter unpleasant aromas are effectively dissipated while desirable esters remain intact, thanks to the optimal dimensions of the SHUWAN design.
Conclusion
The upcoming Lifestyle Week 2025 offers a perfect opportunity to explore the intricate world of sake drinking with SHUWAN. Their commitment to enhancing the sake experience through innovative design is set to redefine how enthusiasts appreciate this traditional beverage. Don’t miss the chance to engage in this unique tasting experience and gain insights into the science behind aroma and flavor differences.
Event Details
- - Event Name: Lifestyle Week 2025 Table & Kitchenware Expo
- - Date: July 2-4, 2025
- - Venue: Tokyo Big Sight, East Hall 4
- - Organizer: RX Japan Co., Ltd.
Contact SHUWAN
Represented by CEO Kentaro Shojima, SHUWAN is headquartered in Hakata, Fukuoka. For more information or inquiries, reach out to their Tokyo Office at contact@shuwan.jp.