burgundy

22-1-1

Daijiro, Yamahai Junmai

Articulating the unique character of sake is the central belief embedded in the Daijiro brand. Above all, it emphasizes the robust and condensed savory elements of sake produced in the yamahai style – a method that employs higher yeast concentration in the initial mash, and forces different strains to compete, ensuring that only the stronger will contribute to the finished product.

19-1-1

Shichida, Junmai, Yamadaho, 75% polished, Non-Filtration Original Sake

Synonymous with the Shichida name is a set of four limited release, unpasteurized sake, each using one of four sake rice varieties – Yamada Nishiki, Yamadaho, Omachi, and Aiyama – and all polished at 75%. When the yields of Yamadaho are greater, this particular one is brewer more regularly. As a parent variety to the more prevalent Yamada Nishiki, this grain possesses a rigid, somewhat primal quality that creates an exciting flavor profile.

14-3-1

Zaku, Junmai, Ho no Tomo

Of the three incarnations of Zaku in a junmai style, Ho no moto offers the ideal balance of flavor and aroma. Presenting an initial scent of lychee and fruit character, proceeding into a subtle sweetness, and finishing with a light aftertaste, it expresses the character of rice grain in a gentle, harmonious manner, as its name suggests.

14-1-1

Zaku, Miyabi no Tomo, Junmai Daiginjo, Nakadori

Within sake production, three terms are used to distinguish between stages in the pressing process: Arabashiri for the first portions, and Seme for the last, leaving Nakadori to refer to the most pure and prized portion drawn off during the height. Presenting a luscious ginjo-style aroma, mellow and elegant sweetness, and a glossy texture that permeates through the whole length, it seems to bring time to a stand-still. Delicate and refined to the utmost.

8-1-1

Hakuin Masamune, Kimoto Junmai, Homare-Fuji

Despite silver and gold accolades at both the International Wine Challenge and Warmed Sake Contest, respectively, the brewery discontinued production of its lauded Yamahai Junmai style in favour of the older kimoto method in 2014, pursuing a firmer, more crisp and distinctive profile. The succeeding Kimoto Junmai takes advantage of the high yeast concentration afforded through this approach to cultivate the most resilient strains and fully ferment the mash, resulting in high alcohol and very low residual sugars. Alternating between mild, deeply savoury, and lightly refreshing characters from initial taste, across the palate, and right through to after-taste, it beguiles you into repeating the experience with each sip.