The name “Kamikaze” for this sweet and sour drink carries a historical significance that dates back to the 12th century in Japan. The term “Kamikaze” itself translates to “divine wind” in English. This name was given to the drink to commemorate a remarkable event that occurred during that time.
In the 12th century, Japan faced the threat of invasion from the Mongolian Empire, led by Kublai Khan. The Mongolians had already conquered vast territories and were determined to expand their empire further. They set their sights on Japan, planning a massive armada to invade the island nation.
However, luck was on Japan's side. As the Mongolian armada approached the shores of Japan, a tremendous storm suddenly emerged, wreaking havoc on the Mongolian fleet. This storm, which came to be known as the “divine wind” or “kamikaze,” destroyed a significant portion of the invading force, effectively preventing the Mongolians from successfully invading Japan.
The Kamikaze storm was seen as a divine intervention, as it thwarted the Mongolian invasion and saved Japan from occupation. The term “kamikaze” became synonymous with this extraordinary event and was used to describe the storm that had saved the nation.
Fast forward to modern times, and the name Kamikaze was adopted for this sweet and sour drink. The choice of name is likely due to the drink's strong acidity, which can be likened to the force and power of the Kamikaze storm. Additionally, the tinge of sweetness in the drink may symbolize the element of luck or divine intervention that saved Japan from invasion.
It's important to note that the Kamikaze drink is not unique to Japan and can be found in various cocktail menus around the world. However, the historical significance behind its name adds a layer of depth and meaning to the drink, making it more than just a combination of ingredients.
The Kamikaze shot is named after the “divine wind” that saved Japan from a Mongolian invasion in the 12th century. It carries a sense of power and luck, which is reflected in the drink's strong acidity and hint of sweetness. The name serves as a reminder of Japan's history and the remarkable events that shaped the nation.