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Sake's Quest for UNESCO Heritage Status
Ozawa Brewery seeks UNESCO recognition for sake-making, highlighting its cultural significance and growing global appeal.
English
United States
LifestyleCultureJapanIndo PacificFoodUnescoSake
Ozawa BreweryJapan Sake And Shochu Makers AssociationUnescoThe Sake Company
Junichiro OzawaHitoshi UtsunomiyaMax Del VitaYuri Kageyama
- Why is sake's global popularity increasing?
- The growing popularity of sake is attributed to its smooth flavor, which pairs well with various cuisines. Its versatility and the cultural significance associated with it have broadened its global appeal.
- How is sake viewed and used within Japanese culture?
- Sake is used in Japanese culture for purification and celebrations, with a sip symbolizing the sealing of a marriage. It is more than just an alcoholic beverage; it is considered part of Japanese culture itself.
- What are the essential components for producing sake?
- The key ingredients to sake-making are Japanese rice and the relatively soft freshwater found in Japan. The water quality, like that from the Ozawa Brewery's wells, is crucial for the final product.
- What is the current state of sake exports from Japan?
- Sake exports from Japan total over 41 billion yen annually, with the U.S. and China being the largest markets. While this is an increase from 22 billion yen in 2018, exports still constitute a small percentage of overall sake production.
- What is Ozawa Brewery hoping to achieve with sake-brewing?
- Ozawa Brewery, founded in 1702, is hoping to receive UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage recognition for sake-brewing. The 18th-generation head, Junichiro Ozawa, believes this will help boost global sales and maintain the tradition.