Description Much more than just a soda, Ramune is an institution in Japan. Yet it’s simply a carbonated drink, a kind of lemonade (its name, incidentally, comes from the English word “lemonade”). The appeal, however, lies less in the liquid than in the bottle itself: a tapered bottle with a glass marble lodged in the neck, creating a truly surprising experience. The whole game consists of sipping the lemonade while imagining you might swallow the marble… even though it’s impossible. Children love it, and adults also happily indulge in this playful thrill. Inspired by Western lemonade, Ramune swept across Japan when the country reopened to foreigners during the Meiji era (late 19th century). Since then, it has been enjoyed during matsuri (traditional festivals) and is even celebrated on May 4. Here, Ramune comes in a matcha flavor—a quintessentially Japanese variety—that will appeal to both children and parents alike. Usage: After school, as a gift for someone new to the drink (or a nostalgic fan), for fun, to give yourself a thrill, or simply to quench your thirst: there’s always a reason to enjoy a Ramune. Storage: Store in a cool, dry, dark place. Consume promptly after opening. Ingredients: Water, high–fructose corn syrup, acidifiers (E330, E331), flavor enhancer E327, matcha flavoring. Shelf life: 24 months
