Koshi no kanbai, Sai, Junmai Ginjo

From a pioneer of light  & dry sake, for any cuisine

Koshi no kanbai "Winter plum of Niigata", Sai "clean" , Junmai Ginjo

Nestled amidst the lush rice paddies of Niigata Prefecture, Japan's premier rice-growing region, Ishimoto Shuzo stands as a testament to tradition and unwavering dedication to quality. Facing the snow-laden Sea of Japan and surrounded by rivers, the brewery's sandy terrain has long been renowned for its plum cultivation, a heritage reflected in its signature brand, "Koshino Kanbai," meaning "Winter Ume of Niigata."

Since its inception, the brewery has remained steadfast in its pursuit of "elegant yet robust flavors," even during eras when full-bodied, sweet sake dominated the market. In the 1970s, as the dry sake boom swept across Japan, the brewery's offerings soared in popularity, becoming coveted gems amidst a surge in demand. Despite the clamor and potential for profit, the brewery remained true to its principles, refusing to raise prices or compromise on quality by increasing production.

This unwavering commitment to excellence has solidified Ishimoto Shuzo's reputation as a pioneer in the realm of dry sake, earning it a place among the most respected sake producers in Japan. Their dedication to traditional brewing methods, coupled with their unwavering pursuit of quality, has resulted in a range of exquisite sakes that embody the essence of Niigata's terroir.

Emerging from 2016, this sake marks a triumphant return to regular bottling after a 45-year hiatus. Its gentle aroma beckons you in, while its smooth, effortless flow across the palate unveils a profound depth of rice umami. The brewery's pursuit was to craft a sake that embodies understated elegance, a light and captivating brew that never loses its allure.

Meticulously polished rice, carefully crafted koji, and a delicate fermentation process at low temperatures result in a sake with a subtle acidity. Extended low-temperature maturation allows the flavors to harmonize, culminating in a pristine expression of purity. A subtle swell, a soft, silky texture, and a crisp finish characterize this sake. With each sip, its allure deepens, revealing a new dimension of flavor.

This groundbreaking junmai ginjo redefines the sake experience, transcending cultural boundaries. From the first bite to the last, its unwavering harmony seamlessly complements your culinary journey, allowing you to savor the exquisite interplay of food and sake.

Flavor, Aroma and Paring Table