Yoakemae Junmai Daiginjo – Yamakeinishiki Rice

“Yoakemae Yamakeinishiki Junmai Daiginjo” is a highly acclaimed exhibition-grade sake from Ono Shuzo in Nagano Prefecture in recent years, crafted to showcase the outstanding potential of Yamakeinishiki, one of Nagano’s newest sake rice varieties.

It is brewed using long, low-temperature fermentation together with meticulous control over rice soaking, cooling, and steaming. Carefully crafted by the toji (master brewer), the sake presents an elegant and refined aroma reminiscent of premium Japanese grapes, pear, and delicate floral notes.

The texture is silky smooth. On the palate, it reveals gentle sweetness and rich umami, finishing with a crisp and refreshing dry note. Sake brewed with Yamakeinishiki rice typically displays abundant umami along with a clean, dry structure, resulting in a fuller yet balanced flavor profile.

It can be enjoyed at a variety of temperatures—chilled, at room temperature, or gently warmed (kanzake)—each offering a different expression of its character.

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