Many Japanese wine fans are probably also interested in cider.
In fact, the popularity of cider has been rising in Japan in recent years, with domestic cider attracting global attention, putting it right on the verge of a boom.
Amidst this, "Cidre Shop Armorica," Osaka's first specialty store carrying over 100 varieties of "apple alcohol," opened in Honmachi, Osaka.
Let us take a look at what kind of shop it is.
Why Cider!?
"Cidre Shop Armorica" is a cider specialty shop attached to a French restaurant.
The shop's owner is Daisuke Yamanaka, who has also been active as a part-time lecturer in the beverage department at the Osaka College of Culinary Arts.
Triggered by his encounter with cider made using "Japanese apples whose quality is highly evaluated worldwide," he reportedly conducted research and carefully selected products to serve to guests at the French restaurant he operates.
However, he was confronted with the numerous challenges cideries face, such as the low recognition of cider and the shrinking production of raw materials due to a decrease in apple farmers themselves.
In order to continue offering attractive ciders, his desire grew stronger to bridge producers aiming for sustainable apple cultivation and consumers wishing to enjoy cider, leading him to open a store dedicated exclusively to cider, which is rare nationwide.
4 Key Features
"Cidre Shop Armorica" is said to have 4 key features designed to help customers find their favorite 1 bottle out of more than 100 varieties of cider.
- Staff holding dual certifications as both sommelier and cider ambassador offer tastings and propose ciders tailored to customers' preferred alcoholic beverages, such as beer or wine.
- Taking advantage of being attached to a restaurant, they make proposals not only about which cider pairs with what cuisine, but also what situations it fits, such as indoors or outdoors, with friends or family, or for one's own time.
- Since cider is relatively low in calories and purines among alcoholic beverages, has an alcohol content of about 2 to 8%, and is rich in polyphenols, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, they make proposals that align with health-conscious lifestyles.
- The more than 100 varieties of labels are all unique. Customers are encouraged to enjoy buying bottles for their label art and occasionally take an adventure.
In a way, it feels similar to choosing Japanese wine, which is also part of cider's charm.
We look forward to seeing what kind of cider we can encounter.
Let's Support Cider Too!
Along with over-the-counter sales, "Cidre Shop Armorica" also conducts mail order, providing nationwide delivery.
You can get your favorite cider without visiting the shop in person.
Like Japanese wine, cider is a brewed beverage full of charm.
Why not support domestic cider as well?
Reference Store Name: Cidre Shop Armorica Location: Mido Urban Life B1F, 4-3-14 Kawaramachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 541-0048 (2-minute walk from Exit 2 of Honmachi Station) TEL: 06-6226-8955 Business Hours: 13:00–21:00 Closed: 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, every Thursday URL: https://www.cidre-armorica.com/