What if safe, palatable alcohol can be produced from wood? Humanity’s history of boozing traces back millennia… but our planet’s largest plants have never been offered as a source for libation. That idea is no longer a fairy tale, thanks to a group of Japanese researchers, an award-winning mixologist and a sustainability-focused startup. In fact, bottles of “wood spirits” are expected to hit the shelves soon. …Yuichiro Otsuka took the lead in developing the technology behind the creation of the world’s first potable alcoholic drink made by directly fermenting, and then distilling, wood. …The alcohol made from cedar lets off that familiar, refreshing woody aroma, while the mizunara oak is mellower, reminiscent of whisky. From the birch spirit wafts a fruity smell, akin to brandy, while the cherry trees have a softer but bright, sweet presence, similar to white wine.