Yuki no Bosha Junmai Daiginjo

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Yuki no Bosha Junmai Daiginjo captivates with its delicate bouquet of tropical fruits such as pear, mango, and papaya, intertwined with elegant floral hints of gardenia and vanilla. It’s a beautifully harmonized expression of the Junmai Daiginjo style, distinguished by its meticulous attention to detail in ingredient selection and brewing precision. The sake’s flavor profile dances elegantly between notes of fresh pear and mango, delicate grape, and the tantalizing sweetness whispers of white peach and cotton candy. This refined trait is underscored by a notable complexity and the gentle caress of sweet, confectionery undertones. The mouthfeel is luxurious—round, velvety, with a viscous texture that glides smoothly, resonating with a silky palate experience. This premier example of Junmai Daiginjo embodies the lavish artistry of Japanese sake, ensuring a profound connection for sake enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike with its layers and depth, truly a testament to Akita Prefecture’s renowned region and Saiya Shozuten’s brewing mastery.

Pairings & Suggestions

• Sushi & Sashimi: Complements light fish such as tuna, salmon, or yellowtail with its refreshing tropical aromas.
• Seafood: Ideal with grilled sea bass or snapper, enhancing the delicate flavors.
• Poultry: Pairs exquisitely with grilled chicken marinated in citrus, accentuating both the dish and the sake.
• Asian-Inspired Dishes: Enjoy with miso soup or Thai spring rolls for a delightful culinary experience.
• Serving Suggestion: Best served chilled in small, tulip-shaped glasses to enhance aroma appreciation.

Saiya Shozuten: A Heritage of Excellence in Brewing

The brand behind Yuki no Bosha Junmai Daiginjo, Saiya Shozuten, epitomizes a remarkable fusion of tradition and innovation within the sake brewing world. Established in 1902, this Akita-based brewery has been a beacon of exceptional craftsmanship. What elevates Saiya’s credentials is not just its historical pedigree but its continuous pursuit of excellence in sake brewing techniques, particularly through efforts such as being the first brewery in Japan to receive certification for organic production through ASAC. Saiya Shozuten’s commitment to crafting sake of unparalleled quality is mirrored in their meticulous approach to selecting locally sourced, premium rice varieties like Akita Komachi, which are lauded for their suitability in sake production. Brewmaster Toichi Takahashi, with over three decades of expertise, adds further prestige to the brewery’s name, recognized by the Emperor of Japan for his extraordinary craftsmanship. Such recognition, coupled with a strong community ethos and an innovative brewing style, makes Saiya Shozuten a standout in the global sake arena.

Understanding Junmai Sakes

When it comes to Junmai sake, the difference lies in the rice — how much of it is polished away, and how that choice shapes the flavor. Think of it as minimalism versus refinement — each tier offering its own kind of beauty.

• Junmai (≤70% polish): Bold, earthy, full-bodied. You taste the rice. Great warm or room temp.

• Junmai Ginjo (≤60% polish): Lighter, more aromatic with hints of fruit. Smooth and slightly refined. Best chilled.

• Junmai Daiginjo (≤50% polish): Ultra-polished, delicate, complex. Soft, elegant, and best enjoyed cold — a luxury pour.

The more the rice is polished, the more delicate and nuanced the sake becomes. But that doesn’t mean “better” — it’s about preference, occasion, and the kind of experience you want in the glass.

Storage Instructions

Store unopened sake in your fridge ideally at 4°C. If you wish to drink your sake chilled, place it in the refrigerator the night before consumption. Opened bottles should always be kept refrigerated. If you later wish to drink your sake at room temperature, place the portion you want into a small pouring vessel and leave that out on the counter at least 3 hours before consumption. Generally, sake should be consumed within one year of the bottling date, but when properly stored, it can survive up to 2 years. An open bottle of sake must be consumed within 2 to 3 weeks.