This is the Ito En x Nippon Yell Nagano Three Apple Brothers. As part of the Nippon Yell project, aimed at supporting production areas across Japan, this particular drink featured 10% juice from three original varieties of apples from Nagano Prefecture: Akibae, known for its balanced sweetness and acidity; Shinano Sweet, prized for its juicy taste; and Shinano Gold, renowned for its rich flavour.
The beverage had a translucent beige hue and a sweet aroma of ripe apples. Sipped chilled, it immediately revealed a vibrant apple flavour with a crisp, mellow sweetness at the forefront. As the sip progressed, a refreshing acidity emerged, adding depth and juiciness to the overall flavour profile. Even in the finish, the nuanced apple notes remained rich in flavour yet light on the palate, ahead of a clean aftertaste. Overall, this blend of three distinct apple flavours was impeccably balanced, offering a refreshing departure from typical apple juices in the West, which often feature a more intense and one-dimensional sweet acidity throughout. Worth repurchasing.
This Ito En x Nippon Yell Nagano Three Apple Brothers contained 400 g. It was produced in Japan and purchased in Sydney, Australia in 2024.