Sakata Shuzo
Jokigen 'Rice Label' Junmai Sake
Jokigen 'Rice Label' Junmai Sake
Rice:
Region: Yamagata
Country: Japan
Volume: 720ml
Upon opening the bottle, you're greeted with a captivating aroma—a harmonious blend of fresh toasted grains and lush tropical fruit. As you take a sip, the medium-full body unfolds on your palate, revealing a beautiful glossy texture and notes of fresh apple and muscat grape. The sake culminates in a soft but dry finish, leaving a lasting impression.
What sets Jokigen apart is its atypical fruitiness, a characteristic that perfectly captures the vibrant and characterful potential of Yamada Nishiki rice. This sake is not just a beverage; it's an experience—a journey through the flavors of Yamagata.
For food pairings, this Junmai sake complements slightly richer dishes wonderfully. Imagine savoring it alongside grilled fatty salmon, roast chicken, or a spicy Thai red curry, letting the sake's vibrancy enhance the flavors of the meal.
In essence, Jokigen 'Rice Label' Junmai Sake is a celebration of craftsmanship and tradition, delivering a sake that is both lively and full of character.
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About Brewery
Sakata Shuzo
Sakata, which translates to "sake-field," is a northern Japanese port town where the Mogami River transports rice and other agricultural treasures from Yamata's interior to the Sea of Japan, facilitating nationwide distribution. The town's proliferation of rice warehouses gave rise to a thriving sake-making culture.
Founded in 1946, Sakata Shuzo emerged from the merger of five small breweries in Sakata. This strategic alliance allowed them to consolidate resources and expand their sake distribution across Japan, shifting their focus from local competition. Today, the brewery has solidified its position as Yamagata's premier producer of premium sake. Remarkably, nearly 80% of their sake is honjozo grade or higher, and they are pioneers in the labor-intensive kimoto brewing method.
In recent years, Sakata Shuzo has consistently secured top honors in national tasting competitions, a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality. Much of this success can be attributed to Shoichi Sato, who serves dual roles as brewery president and head toji brewmaster. Recognized as one of Japan's leading toji, Sato is a revered mentor and fountain of knowledge for many in the brewing community. He is renowned for his innovative spirit, continuously exploring new rice varietals and fermentation techniques, all while drawing upon decades of brewing expertise.
Among their offerings, the brewery's signature Jokigen brand stands out as one of the most decorated premium sake brands in Japan. This classic Yamagata-style sake is celebrated for its impeccable structure, mild fruitiness, and exceptional definition.
