The Drops of God
Synopsis — from MyAnimeList
Over the course of history, thanks to its multifaceted scent, palette of warm colors, and spiritual texture, wine has become an endless source of discoveries for food enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and poets alike. On top of this world, Yutaka Kanzaki stands as the most refined wine critic of his generation. Upon his passing, he tasks his estranged son Shizuku to compete with his adoptive son Issei Tomine for his legacy, urging them to find 12 elusive wine bottles known as the Drops of God. Despite following intense oenology training as a child, Shizuku has no interest in wine and has always refused to taste it. Intrigued by the initial competition to win the right to live in his father's house, a previous chance encounter with apprentice sommelier Miyabi Shinohara helps him develop an interest in wine tasting. As Shizuku discovers his gift as an oenologist, he eventually decides to join the competition to discover the secret of his father's passion.
Audience Consensus
Audience opinion is notably divided, with strong praise for the unique premise and educational aspects of wine appreciation, countered by significant criticism of the production quality and pacing. While some viewers find the story emotionally resonant and engaging, others find it melodramatic and poorly executed, leading to a polarized reception.
Strengths
- Unique premise with emotional depth exploring human relationships.
- Educational content about wine presented in an engaging way.
- Appreciated the visual representation of wine tasting experiences.
- Opening and ending themes are well-done and set the mood.
- Characters and their motivations are gradually revealed and understandable.
Weaknesses
- Animation quality is perceived as cheap, stiff, and detracts from the source material.
- Pacing is inconsistent, with some arcs feeling rushed or crammed.
- Story can be melodramatic and unbelievable at times.
- Visuals are inferior to the manga, lacking its contrast and impact.
- Voice acting is criticized as poor and unconvincing.