Visualizing the Aroma of Sake with Cutting-Edge Sensor Technology in Tsunan, Niigata—Exploring New Possibilities through the Fusion of Tradition and Science
Tsunan Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Tsunan Town, Nakauonuma District, Niigata Prefecture; President: Kengo Suzuki; hereinafter “Tsunan Sake Brewery”) has conducted an aromatic component analysis of sake using the cutting-edge sensor “Sylph” developed by Ball Wave Inc. (Headquarters: Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture; President: Shingo Akao; hereinafter “Ball Wave”). This study successfully captured the changes in aromatic components during the sake brewing process, confirming the potential application of this technology for product evaluation and quality control.
Advanced Sensor Technology for Aroma Analysis
Sylph, developed by Ball Wave, is a highly sensitive sensor based on Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) technology, capable of rapidly and accurately measuring minute changes in volatile compounds. In this analysis, the primary aromatic components of sake—including ethyl acetate, ethanol, isoamyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, and ethyl caproate—were measured at different fermentation stages of moromi (mash) as well as in various products from the GO Series (GO GRANDCLASS Uonuma Koshihikari Edition, GO LUNAR, GO VINO, GO DOLCE).
The results quantitatively captured fluctuations in aromatic components during fermentation, clearly demonstrating the unique characteristics of each product. By utilizing this technology, the mechanisms behind sake’s flavor profile can be scientifically analyzed, enabling more consistent quality control.
Future Outlook: Further Innovation through AI Integration
Tsunan Sake Brewery has already introduced “smart brewing,” applying generative AI to the sake-making process.
Building on the findings of this analysis, the company aims to explore correlations between analytical results and human sensory perceptions. By integrating AI technology, Tsunan Sake Brewery seeks to enhance the design of sake’s aroma and taste, improving precision in quality control while unlocking new possibilities for flavor innovation. Moving forward, the company will continue to merge cutting-edge technology with traditional brewing techniques, striving for further advancements in sake production.
About Ball Wave Inc.
- CEO: Shingo Akao
- Headquarters: T-Biz 501, 6-6-40 Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8579, Japan
- Phone: +81-22-302-6659
- Fax: +81-22-302-6709
- Website: http://www.ballwave.jp
About Tsunan Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Tsunan Sake Brewery, located in Akinari, Tsunan Town, Nakauonuma District, Niigata Prefecture, is a sake brewery known for its commitment to crafting high-quality sake. The region is famous for its heavy snowfall and natural spring water sourced from mountains reaching 2,000 meters in elevation. Using locally grown rice varieties such as “Gohyakumangoku” and “Uonuma Koshihikari,” Tsunan Sake Brewery embraces a brewing philosophy that harmonizes with nature. Under the brand concept “Brew for Future—Brewing a Sustainable Future,” the company is dedicated to creating new value through the fusion of science and traditional brewing, as well as expanding its global presence since its restructuring in 2023.
