papan

― A connection through mead. A special bottle crafted with my father.

This mead began with thoughts of my family living far away and the question of what kind of bottle I would want to give them as a gift.
My parents—the Yamazawas—are living their second act deep in the mountains of Yamanashi, leading a life that embraces the blessings of nature. I wanted to create a mead while engaging with that family. That was the inspiration.

About the Crafting

Why these ingredients? - I was looking for ingredients naturally cultivated in Yamanashi. Plums pair well with the Yamanashi climate and there was plenty of high-quality fruit available. I chose cinnamon and cacao nibs to highlight the luscious atmosphere of the ripe plums.

Method - I used the "Bochet" technique, where the honey is caramelized to add a deep, rich flavor. The toasted quality enhances the chocolate notes, and the sweetness isn't just the simple taste of honey, but one with added complexity.

Product Information

  • Product Name: papan

  • Volume: 500ml

  • Alcohol Content: 4%

  • Ingredients: Honey (Myanmar), Plums (Yamanashi), Cacao nibs, Cinnamon

  • Features: A harmony of sweet chocolate aromas and a distinct, crisp acidity. It is light, carbonated, and never cloying. Please enjoy it well-chilled.
    　For restaurants, this is especially recommended for establishments that focus on desserts or have a large female customer base.

  • Retail Price: 2,310 yen (tax included)

  • Availability: Limited batch (released in early summer)

Recommended Pairings

  • Rye bread or pain de campagne (we recommend toasting it well)
  • Rich, sweet ice cream

  • Yakitori with sweet sauce (thigh meat is recommended over tenderloin)

Perfect for Those Who...

  • Are looking for a "gift" for a loved one, regardless of whether it's for an anniversary.

  • Want to enjoy a special "treat" with a light alcohol content similar to beer.

  • Dislike the acidity of wine or the burn of high-alcohol spirits.

  • Cherish their quiet nights alone (the sweetness allows for a slow, contemplative drink).

As a Conversation Starter.

"Honey-based alcohol is a rare and memorable gift, so I highly recommend it. It's sweet and low in alcohol, making it a safe and thoughtful choice even for those who aren't usually big drinkers."

The Story

This mead was not specifically planned as a "Father's Day gift."

Many of us have someone we think of as a "father figure" or someone who has always encouraged us. There are times when we truly want to say "thank you." Times when, reflecting on the years gone by, we wish to reach out to that person once more.
I aimed to create a mead that could stay by your side during those moments.

I kept the alcohol content low so that even those who don't drink often can enjoy it.
At the same time, I designed a rich flavor profile so that those who love sake or wine can enjoy it as an aperitif during moments of pleasant conversation.

If you tell the recipient, "This is alcohol made from honey," it naturally sparks a conversation—"What's that?"—making it a memorable gift. That potential is one of the charms of this mead.

Of course, it is also a flavor that is easy to recommend to those who aren't fond of alcohol, as well as women who prefer sweet drinks.
The catchy label makes it a perfect gift, brimming with love and diversity.

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