JT, ostensibly a tobacco company, has launched a new fifth version of its intriguing carbonated drink Komezukuri.
The name means “making rice” and naturally this is a fizzy beverage made using real Japanese rice.
It was first launched in 2009, JT is playing with our expectations here. Of course, a drink made from Japanese rice and we all think of Nihonshu. But there’s no alcohol in Komezukuri.
Instead, it is basically sparkling water made from rice with a balance of the sweet and the refreshing for an ultimately clean, clear taste.
Made in co-operation with Ozeki, a long-established sake brewery of One Cup Sake fame, this latest “Tokusen” version uses Yamada Nishiki, a type of high quality Japanese sake rice.
A 140ml bottle will set you back a mere ¥140, a standard price to pay for a soft drink in spite of its high-grade ingredients and inspirations.
