May wine is something not a lot of folks are familiar with. Traditionally, it is a still white wine that has been aromatized and infused with the leaves of Woodruff. ( a small flower not common to North America). The Germans were probably the first to begin using the flower to affect their spring wine or Maywein. Many times sparkling wine or carbonated water will be added to it, as well as strawberries to make an alcoholic fruit punch. The concoction is used to celebrate May day and the return of spring and growth.

 

  Here in Hawaii, we also celebrate May Day, usually vicariously through our children at their often overcrowded elementary school programs. Many Hawaii residents will not make May wine a part of their celebration, but culturally will celebrate another holiday that many know well:              Tango-no-Sekku, or Boy’s Day is one of great celebration for many Hawaii families, especially those with Japanese heritage. Celebrated on May 5th, numerous homes across the state fly their flags of Koi; The number in direct correlation to how many sons there are in the immediate family. This day was set aside hundreds of years ago in Japan to celebrate and respect the happiness and well being of every country’s greatest asset. It’s children.

 

 For families that celebrate traditional Japanese holidays, Sake is a drink that would find itself in such a household. While it is an adult drink, there are many adult “boys” that can partake of this rice-based drink and celebrate the upcoming day. In honor of the holiday, Shiroma’s Wine and More (SWAM) is having a tasting of 9 different Sake on May 1st. (sorry for the late notice) After that, owner Jill Shiroma plans to have a good stock of Sake on hand for those of you who wish to buy a bottle. Jill has a selection of gift sets available for your Boy’s Day gift ideas so Please visit her website by clicking on the ad below to learn more and see what’s available. Happy Boy’s Day!