#Japan #Tokyo #UCC #YOINED #Sakelabo Tokyo

UCC's YOINED: A Unique Coffee Experience

UCC Ueshima Coffee Co., located in Kobe, Japan, is proud to introduce its innovative product, YOINED, an unprecedented “non-drink coffee.” This unique offering will be available in a limited collaboration with Sakelabo Tokyo, a popular sake bar in Tokyo's Jujo district. Starting February 11, 2026, customers can enjoy YOINED paired with select sake, curated by certified sake sommeliers, elevating the experience of savoring both beverages.

The Essence of YOINED

The name YOINED is derived from the Japanese term for “aftertaste,” as it emphasizes the lingering flavor and aroma of coffee beans. This concept emerged over 20 years from the research interests of coffee enthusiasts, culminating in the product's debut in 2023. YOINED allows consumers to experience the natural sweetness, acidity, and bitterness unique to coffee beans, delivering an aromatic experience that goes beyond traditional coffee consumption.

In its inaugural year, YOINED achieved remarkable sales within just a few days and has received overwhelming interest in its third release. The product's unique qualities have surprised many, with comments highlighting the chocolate-like appearance yet distinctly powerful coffee aroma. For 2026, two types of YOINED will feature a blend of coffees from Colombia and Guatemala. Colombian YOINED boasts a tropical taste with an impactful aftertaste, while the Guatemalan variant, from a renowned farm, offers flavors reminiscent of orange and caramel.

Collaboration with Sakelabo Tokyo

Sakelabo Tokyo provides an extraordinary platform to showcase YOINED. The bar specializes in over 30 varieties of sake and prides itself on pairing dishes with sake experiences. The collaboration focuses on enhancing YOINED's profound aromas alongside selected sake, resulting in a complementary experience. The soft sweetness, acidity, and umami of sake meet the distinct flavors of YOINED, creating a balanced and satisfying experience that extends the pleasure of both beverages.

The sake selections include exquisite varieties:

• - Shichihonyari Kokoku: This mature sake from Shiga Prefecture presents nutty and caramel notes with a smooth mouthfeel.
• - Kuro Matsusenjo Doburoku: A fresh sake from Nagano that harmonizes rice sweetness with refreshing acidity.
• - Inemankai Ancient Rice Sake: A unique beverage with fruity undertones and an elegant balance of sweetness and acidity from Kyoto.
• - Nature Kijou Sake: An organic sake characterized by sweet fruit notes and a refined acidity from Tochigi Prefecture.

Pairing Menus Introduction

The pairing menu at Sakelabo Tokyo features a seasonal 8-course meal, showcasing dishes designed to complement both YOINED and the selected sake. It's not just about a post-meal enjoyment but proposes a novel pairing experience that blurs the lines between dessert and after-dinner drink.

Availability

The special pairing will be available in limited quantities from February 11, 2026, until supplies last. Interested customers are encouraged to reach out to Sakelabo Tokyo for reservations.

• - Course Name: Assorted 8-Dish Course
• - Price: 7,200 yen (tax included)
• - Location: Sakelabo Tokyo, 1-1-7 Jujo Nakahara, Kita-ku, Tokyo (B1F Dai 3 Kitana Building)
• - Hours: 6:00 PM - 11:30 PM (Weekdays); 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM (Saturdays and the day before holidays); 3:00 PM - 10:30 PM (Sundays and holidays)
• - Reservation Contact: TEL: 03-5948-5027

About YOINED

YOINED was inspired by researchers eager to elevate how coffee aroma is experienced, leading to an innovative approach that captures the essence of coffee beans without brewing. Yearly releases feature coffee sourced from distinguished farms, with YOINED presenting unique flavor profiles characterized by their origin. This year’s assortment includes six pieces of YOINED from Colombia and Guatemala.

About Sakelabo Tokyo

Sakelabo Tokyo is dedicated to offering over 30 varieties of sake, combining expert pairings and a relaxed atmosphere that appeals to both novices and enthusiasts. By promoting sake culture for future generations, Sakelabo works through various media outlets to expand the appreciation of sake.

For more information on YOINED or to place orders, visit UCC’s official online store. Join this exceptional coffee and sake pairing experience at Sakelabo Tokyo!