Kuromatsu Hakushika Junmai Ginjo Sake, Japan

The Kuromatsu Hakushika Junmai Ginjo Sake from Japan is a mild yet flavorful sake that seamlessly combines the elegance of ginjo aromatics with the depth and body of traditional junmai brewing. Smooth and slightly dry, this well-balanced sake reveals a fresh, fruity character and a polished, versatile structure that makes it a standout across a range of occasions and cuisines.

Product Details:

• Type: Junmai Ginjo
• Producer: Tatsuuma-Honke Brewing Company
• Country: Japan
• Alcohol: 14.7%
• Rice Polishing Rate: 60%
• Nihonshudo (Sake Meter Value): +1 (slightly dry)

Sensory Description:

Delicately aromatic and rounded, this sake opens with subtle notes of fresh melon, green apple, and white flowers. The palate is smooth and lightly textured, offering a dry yet fruit-forward profile with gentle hints of pear, rice sweetness, and a whisper of fennel. The full body carries a clean, structured finish with enough umami to linger elegantly, making it as pleasing to sip on its own as it is to pair with food.

Awards & Accolades:

• Silver Medal, San Francisco International Wine Competition (2020)
• Bronze Medal, San Francisco International Wine Competition (2019)

Producer's Background:

Founded in 1662 by Kichizaemon Tatsuuma in Nishinomiya—a region long renowned for its pristine water, premium rice, and coastal access—Tatsuuma-Honke has played a pivotal role in the evolution of sake brewing in Japan. Originally transported to Edo via tarukaisen (barrel ships), their sake quickly gained a loyal following. Over the centuries, the brewery expanded its production, introduced glass bottling, and innovated alongside Japan’s cultural shifts. In 1877, their sake brand “Hakushika” earned national acclaim and became their flagship label. Today, Hakushika remains a symbol of excellence, blending centuries-old craftsmanship with modern brewing science to deliver premium sake that resonates across generations and continents.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy chilled at 8–10°C for maximum aromatic clarity, at room temperature for a more rounded palate, or gently warmed to enhance its umami depth. Exceptionally versatile, this sake complements sushi, tempura, teriyaki, tonkatsu, and yakitori. It also performs beautifully in sake-based cocktails or as a subtle enhancer in Japanese cuisine.

The Kuromatsu Hakushika Junmai Ginjo Sake is a harmonious expression of tradition and innovation—capturing the heart of Japanese brewing in every sip while offering a sophisticated pairing companion to a wide range of dishes.