Hisamichi Kasai's Vintagience: A Sake Renaissance

Revolutionizing Vintage Sake with Science and Elegance

Hisamichi Kasai's latest creation, Vintagience, is not just a product but a cultural artifact that marries the rich heritage of Japanese sake with the meticulousness of science. The design draws its inspiration from antique medicine bottles, symbolizing the careful aging process akin to a scientific experiment. The label's gradient mirrors the unpredictable nature of aging, while the clock hands are a nod to the relentless march of time. Vintagience stands out with its unique approach, challenging the conventional image of sake through its visual narrative that pays homage to traditional Japanese patterns.

What sets Vintagience apart is its commitment to exploring uncharted territories of flavor. The Iga-based sake brewery, known for its ninja village origins, has embarked on a quest to monitor and analyze the effects of different storage methods on sake. The result is a collection of vintage sakes with unparalleled taste profiles, achieved through a blend of age-old techniques and modern scientific methods. Vintagience is not just a drink; it's a testament to the brewery's dedication to creating a new culture of sake appreciation.

The realization of Vintagience's design is a testament to the craftsmanship involved in its production. Utilizing prism printing, the label achieves a luminous effect that is both visually striking and representative of the sake's evolving character. The attention to detail extends to the foil-stamped letters and the embossed symbol mark and clock hands, all contributing to the design's luxurious feel. Even the packaging speaks volumes, with a holographic foil that shifts colors, echoing the concept of aging's gradation.

With dimensions that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing, Vintagience's bottle and box are designed to be both a visual and tactile delight. The sake itself promises an interactive experience, offering a ritualistic moment of uncorking and pouring that enhances any dining scenario. It's a versatile companion to a variety of dishes, elevating the culinary journey with each sip.

Launched in November 2023, Vintagience is the culmination of a design journey that sought to redefine the traditional Japanese sake presentation. The design team, led by Hisamichi Kasai, embarked on extensive research to break away from the stereotype of tall bottles and calligraphy labels. Instead, they crafted a brand that encapsulates the mystique of aging through sophisticated typography and innovative visual expressions.

Overcoming the challenge of communicating the value of aged sake, the design team's "Vintage x Science" concept successfully conveys the product's worth. Vintagience is more than a branding project; it's a bridge between the past and the future, a celebration of sake's timeless allure infused with scientific curiosity. Awarded Silver in the A' Packaging Design Award in 2024, Vintagience is a shining example of design excellence, capturing the imagination and elevating the sake experience to an art form.