{"title":"Chugoku","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"chiyomusubi-kitaro-junmai-ginjo-cup","title":"Chiyomusubi \"Kitaro\" Junmai Ginjo Cup","description":"\u003cp\u003eCute packaging aside,\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e this is a \u003cem\u003ereally good\u003c\/em\u003e junmai ginjo. It's distinctive for its lovely balance of rich umami and juicy fruit. Notes of \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eripe honeydew melon, applesauce, vanilla pudding, and just-ripe banana, make a strong case for a little $10 splurge!\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Chiyomusubi series are \u003cem\u003eexcellent sake--\u003c\/em\u003e not just excellent for cup sake. Kitaro's sibling cups: Oyaji and Nezumi Otoko are equally good, and each very different. It's a tiny tour of Tottori prefecture, and a throwback to Tottori's beloved old-timey manga\/cartoon that graced Japanese televisions over 30 years ago!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"180ml","offer_id":41098518560924,"sku":"","price":13.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/chiyo_kitaro.png?v=1721883829"},{"product_id":"chiyomusubi-nezumi-otoko-junmai-ginjo-cup","title":"Chiyomusubi \"Nezumi Otoko\" Junmai Ginjo Cup","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCute packaging aside,\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e this is an excellent dry, crisp style of junmai ginjo. Notes of steamed rice, blanched almond, white mushroom, crisp cucumber, and a little something lactic: like lightly sweetened ricotta for cannoli. The gohyakumangoku rice is the key: it's harder than most other sake rice and dissolves slowly, making for a lighter, crisper style of sake.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Chiyomusubi series are \u003cem\u003eexcellent sake--\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003enot just excellent for cup sake. Nezumi Otoko's sibling cups: Oyaji and Kitaro are equally good, and each very different. It's a tiny tour of Tottori prefecture, and a throwback to Tottori's beloved old-timey manga\/cartoon that graced Japanese televisions over 30 years ago!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"180ml","offer_id":41098518593692,"sku":null,"price":13.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/chiyo_cup_gohyaku.png?v=1721883825"},{"product_id":"hanahato-gorgeous-bird","title":"Hanahato Junmai Kijoshu \"Gorgeous Bird\"","description":"Aged 8 years. Rich, dark, and moving. Molasses, soy sauce, toasted nuts and grains, earth, toffee, shiitake mushroom. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\" data-en-clipboard=\"true\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLuscious, thick, and complex, this dessert sake is perfect with strong cheeses, Winter desserts, and as an after-dinner treat. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEnoki Shuzo, Hiroshima\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"COHO","offers":[{"title":"720ml","offer_id":41157707989148,"sku":null,"price":44.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}]},{"product_id":"chiyomusubi-oyaji","title":"Chiyomusubi \"Oyaji\" Junmai Ginjo Cup","description":"\u003cp\u003eCute packaging aside,\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e this is a great junmai ginjo with a fascinating story. Goriki is Tottori's long-lost heirloom rice brought back from near-extinction in the late 20th century, now brewed into some of the prefecture's best sake. Oyaji is clean, smooth, with soft notes of chestnut, amazake, raw sugar, and hints of orchard fruit.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Chiyomusubi series are \u003cem\u003eexcellent sake--\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003enot just excellent for cup sake. Kitaro's sibling cups: Oyaji and Nezumi Otoko are equally good, and each very different. It's a tiny tour of Tottori prefecture, and a throwback to Tottori's beloved old-timey manga\/cartoon, \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGegege no Kitaroo, \u003c\/span\u003ethat graced Japanese televisions over 30 years ago. This is the character Medama Oyaji, One Eye Old Man, who enjoys baths in a ramen bowl. Gokyraru Oyaji means \"old man having a great time!\" He is the main hero of the manga\/anime.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"180ml","offer_id":41157970526364,"sku":null,"price":13.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/oyaji_cup.png?v=1721883829"},{"product_id":"joto-one-cup-honjozo","title":"Joto Futsushu \"Graffiti\" Cup","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe best-value one cup ever. I was a skeptic right up until I tried it, but this $4, handheld, low environmental impact paper one-cup is actually everything I want and more. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLight and fresh, notes of juicy green grape and watermelon. Great chilled, room temp or warm\u003cstrong\u003e.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41331635880092,"sku":"","price":5.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/joto_cup.png?v=1721883830"},{"product_id":"joto-junmai-nigori-the-blue-one-nakao-shuzo","title":"Joto Junmai Nigori \"The Blue One\" (Nakao Shuzo)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis super-affordable nigori is creamy, soft, sumptuous, like an ultra-ripe, dripping anjou pear. Banana pudding, ripe dates, soft florals, and the delightful sweetness of rice itself: pillowy, mochi-wrapped bites of mango ice cream. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUnlike many nigori Joto has no graininess, no astringency-- It's lightly sweet, lightly fruity. There's not a lot of umami here, or complexity, but the point is to be delightful, friendly, and approachable, with a thick but soft texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"720ml","offer_id":41331636076700,"sku":"","price":24.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"300ml","offer_id":42114053570716,"sku":"","price":7.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1800ml","offer_id":44830509596828,"sku":"","price":42.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Joto_blue.png?v=1721883828"},{"product_id":"sawanoi-shinriki-85-junmai","title":"Sempuku Shinriki \"85\" Kimoto Muroka Genshu","description":"\u003cdiv data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\" data-en-clipboard=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis complex, concentrated sake features dusty aromas of warm brown rice, tart white currant, green tea, toffee, and wildflower honey. Rich and deeply umami on the palate with high acidity and complex bitterness, you'll find notes of chocolate, white pepper, baked pear and dried medicinal herbs dancing on a long finish. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAt 19% ABV, it's nothing to sniff at-- this is a contemplative sipper, delightful cool, room temp or gently warmed (serve in a shallow hirahai to mellow out the alcohol vapors).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e(also spelled Senpuku)!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41482956800156,"sku":"","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Shinriki.png?v=1699561499"},{"product_id":"fukucho-seaside-sparkling","title":"Fukucho Seaside Sparkling","description":"\u003cp\u003eA citrusy, fizzy sparkling sake that has more in common with salty, Greek sparkling whites than with other sake. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Seaside\"-- labeled \"Seafood\" in Japan-- is an ode to the Akitsu, Hiroshima coastline, which raises some of Japan's best seafood, particularly oysters. The white koji used in crafting this brew contributes citric acid (like a squeeze of lemon) which shoots great seafood into an even greater stratosphere. Notes of white blossom, pomelo, white grapefruit, kombu, and mochi bring it all around.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42114055602332,"sku":"","price":30.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Seaside_Fukucho.png?v=1737507306"},{"product_id":"mantensei-kinoko","title":"Mantensei Junmai Ginjo \"Kinoko\"","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eMantensei Kinoko: perhaps the perfect autumnal sake. Kuramoto (brewery president) Touda-san is, like myself and so many others in Portland, a mushroom hunter and enthusiast. This is his homage to mushrooms: the seasons we hunt for them, the dishes we make with them, their beautiful flavors and aromas, and finally the fungus which is itself the beating heart of sake: koji– \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003easpergillus oryzae\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eAt room temperature, I taste sweet, spiced, and earthy notes: brown sugar, hay, buckwheat honey, wheat berries, nutmeg, black tea, graham cracker, cocoa, apricot, turned earth, and of course mushroom. At ~110F, the flavor becomes more pronounced and brings out slightly more sweet notes (more brown sugar and honey), while suppressing or transforming the bitter (cocoa becomes milk chocolate…buckwheat honey becomes honey). The acidity is moderate, however it comes across as soft because the texture is so velvety, weighty, and rich. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis sake has enough balance and flavor on its own to be enjoyable as a sipper, especially gently warmed (try 105-120F). However, all sake benefits from something salty, so if you do want to enjoy it with Netflix as opposed to dinner, consider at least a little dollop of miso or salty chips on the side. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42114064187548,"sku":"","price":34.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Kinoko.png?v=1721883828"},{"product_id":"seikyo-junmai-ginjo-omachi-namazake","title":"Seikyo Junmai Ginjo Omachi Namazake (2026)","description":"\u003cdiv data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\" data-en-clipboard=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eAs usual for Omachi rice, the palate on this namazake is broad and expansive. It fills your mouth with texture and carries the cultivar's distinctive herbal qualities through a loooong and lovely finish.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\nOff-dry, with a full body, unctuous-- creamy-- but not heavy. Umami-forward with notes of labneh yogurt, white mushroom, anise candies, and vanilla custard. But this is highlighted by lightweight, bright, herbal notes of pandan, fresh fennel, mint, lemongrass and allspice. An absolute delight for lovers of omachi.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42114078605468,"sku":"","price":41.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Seikyonamazakecopy.png?v=1713567182"},{"product_id":"kamoizumi-red-maple","title":"Kamoizumi \"Red Maple\" Junmai Ginjo Namazume Genshu 2Y Aged","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePotent and flavorful: the perfect sipping sake. U\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003enpasteurized, undiluted (18.5% ABV) and aged two years at 5°C. Rich, satisfying flavor that improves with age. Enjoy neat, or over a single ice cube. Also delicious warm, which emphasizes the body and richness.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42243684991132,"sku":"","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/red_maple_e502b943-abcd-4118-9704-93e126ee8081.png?v=1721883828"},{"product_id":"kamoizumi-junmai-ginjo-nama-genshu-nigori-summer-snow","title":"Kamoizumi Junmai Ginjo Nama Genshu Nigori \"Summer Snow\" (2023)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e[Tasting notes for 8\/23 bottling, received \u0026amp; quality checked 9\/25]\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBold and intense, with Kamoizumi's characteristically intense acidity and creamy, coconutty, tropical notes. It’s like I’m biting into a midsummer wedge of honeydew melon drizzled with coconut cream and crushed peanuts… then jumping in the salty Seto Inland Sea. There is something intriguing, earthy, minerally in the finish that makes it much more compelling than your average nigori. And at 18% ABV it’s startling how easily this nigori drinks (you have to fit all that flavor in somewhere.)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 600;\"\u003eSTORAGE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eStore the unopened bottle in the fridge, in the dark!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 600;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42606880456860,"sku":"","price":34.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/summer_snow.png?v=1730518684"},{"product_id":"bizen-maboroshi-junmai-ginjo","title":"Bizen Maboroshi Junmai Ginjo Omachi","description":"\u003cp\u003eBizen Maboroshi might be the quintessential omachi sake, at least in my book. The flavor profile is extremely unique, one of a kind really, and gives you the full impression of heirloom omachi rice. Notes of s\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003epearmint, rose, fresh-cut grass, white pepper and balsa wood make you wonder if this is truly just made from rice. An unctuous, slippery body reminds you that this is indeed omachi, famous for its weight on the palate-- like heavy cream in a sea of skim milk. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe brewery is situated amongst omachi fields, where the varietal was first discovered in 1859. It's brewed from the very best local plots of rice based on centuries-old relationships with local farming families. The sake is brewed with the same water that nourishes this rice, by a brewery that exclusively works with omachi. It's truly the deepest love letter to this special, rare and coveted grain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"COHO","offers":[{"title":"720ml","offer_id":42953523888284,"sku":"","price":43.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"300ml","offer_id":42953523921052,"sku":"","price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/bizen_o.png?v=1721883829"},{"product_id":"juji-asahi-omachi-junmai-genshu-kairyo","title":"Juji Asahi Omachi Junmai Genshu Karakuchi \"Kairyo\"","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eBeyond proud to finally have the one and only Juji Asahi in Portland. YES!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA stunning pasteurized genshu from the brewery that produces ritual sake for the famous Izumo Taisha shrine. Powerful and intense rustic flavors. Notes of cocoa and spice with a robust dryness and an almost whiskey-like smokiness. Undiluted, so it is exceptionally full bodied and complex. It has that BAM but also a tart blueberry skin note on the finish, a tension and grip, an entrancing mineral texture, that makes it a greatsword-- not a bludgeon.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMade with Omachi rice grown right in Izumo.\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42818251686044,"sku":null,"price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Jujiasahi.png?v=1699970843"},{"product_id":"gozenshu-bodaimoto-junmai-1859","title":"Gozenshu Omachi Bodaimoto Junmai \"1859\"","description":"\u003cp\u003e1859 is Gozenshu's new brand dedicated to the exploration of Okayama’s heirloom rice, Omachi. Omachi is\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e known for its earthy, herbal, rustic and deep flavor profile, well suited to junmai. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1859, named for the year of Omachi's discovery, is brewed with the original \"Gozenshu bodaimoto method.\" This method produces sake that is rich, mild, and only subtly lactic, with moderate acidity. 1859 has undergone roka (secondary charcoal filtration) and mizuwari (balancing with water) to produce an approachable, mellow, satisfying and hugely enjoyable brew. Less wild than its nigori cousin, but oh-so-gorgeous and dialed in with incredibly satisfying weight, soft roundness, and depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1859 has ripe \u0026amp; rounded flavours of green banana, guava, brown sugar, yogurt \u0026amp; sweet steamed rice. A beautifully long finish tapers off into spicy, fruity, mellow sweetness.\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"720ml","offer_id":42877844914332,"sku":"","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/1859.png?v=1702481989"},{"product_id":"ohmine-omachi-junmai-daiginjo-3-grain","title":"Ohmine Omachi Junmai Daiginjo \"3 Grain\"","description":"The indulgent yet bright, orange creamsicle side of Omachi from the masters of modern Yamaguchi junmai daiginjo, Ohmine.","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43073879802012,"sku":"","price":54.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/ohmineomachi.png?v=1711998419"},{"product_id":"ohmine-3-grain-yamadanishiki-junmai-daiginjo","title":"Ohmine Yamadanishiki Junmai Daiginjo \"3 Grain\"","description":"","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43146114400412,"sku":"","price":51.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/ohmineYNJDG.png?v=1771211304"},{"product_id":"tenbi-tokubetsu-junmai","title":"Tenbi Tokubetsu Junmai","description":"\u003cp\u003eA delightful, light and refreshing modernist junmai ginjo from a region usually known for its powerful umami and big juicy flavors. Notes of passionfruit, custard, caramelized pineapple, mamey, spearmint and laundry sheets!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAcidity is on the high side at M+, a touch grassy when first opened but it dissipates after a few days. Finish lingers, but it doesn't rely on \"bigness\" to deliver this longevity...just great craftsmanship. On the finish I get that fine, Japanese wagashi sugar sweetness and a little starchiness too. Crisp and wonderful. Enjoy now, because the toji is changing-- and it may never be quite the same!\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c!-- notionvc: af829250-5874-4ec6-97bd-ae4867c9f205 --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43832320950428,"sku":null,"price":44.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/tenbitj.png?v=1717439285"},{"product_id":"sankan-shuzo-junmai-ginjo-omachi-triple-crown","title":"Sankan Shuzo Junmai Ginjo Omachi \"Triple Crown\"","description":"\u003cp\u003eA really pretty sake with elegant spice notes... the prettiest pink peppercorn, orange flower, pistachio and rosewater shortbread, violet candies, Earl Grey \u0026amp; salty grapefruit. I'm listing all these big perfumey aromatics, but this isn't a super-floral sake like CEL-24... it's quite a bit more subtle and nuanced, on par with \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/products\/tenbi-tokubetsu-junmai?_pos=2\u0026amp;_psq=tenbi\u0026amp;_ss=e\u0026amp;_v=1.0\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eTenbi Tokubetsu Junmai\u003c\/a\u003e. The palate is on the dry side, a touch of astringency on the finish keeping it clean and moreish. That familiar velvety texture and rich umami typical of Omachi rice comes out when it's at room temperature, but served chilled in a wine glass it reads as lean and tight, with a tension that reminds me of \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/products\/moriki-shuzo-hanabusa-junmai-yamahai-muroka-nama-genshu-2023?_pos=1\u0026amp;_psq=moriki\u0026amp;_ss=e\u0026amp;_v=1.0\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMoriki Shuzo\u003c\/a\u003e (where the toji trained!) or Matsunotsukasa. The finish is longer than you'd expect for a dry sake, lingering with subtle depth and delicate perfume. Warms beautifully to ~125 as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpring 2024, we visited Sankan Shuzo during a brief daytrip to Kojima, which is a port town at the end of a peninsula in Okayama, jutting out into the beautiful Seto Inland Sea. Kurashiki is famous for denim (before that: fabric mills, uniforms and cotton growing, as the high salt content in the soil is inhospitable to rice) but it also has fantastic seafood and a few excellent sake breweries. Sankan is a pretty classic tale of a family business on the brink revived with new energy from its next generation. But, maybe because he's around my same age and comes from an IT background, I find Masumi-san totally relatable and a joy to be around. Masumi-san is kind, funny, super outgoing, and open minded...and he's gone to great (even very silly) personal lengths to turn the tide on Sankan. When he first came home, he did everything solo and by hand, and in pursuing an export contract tried his damnedest to communicate in English before eventually, exhaustedly learning that his import contact speaks Japanese. A brewery of Sankan's size (100 koku) might be one of the smallest we carry here at Sunflower (\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/products\/nishide-shuzo-junmai-moromi?_pos=1\u0026amp;_psq=nishide\u0026amp;_ss=e\u0026amp;_v=1.0\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNishide\u003c\/a\u003e being the other)... and has no business supplying an importer as well known as Kome Collective... but Masumi's determination, hustle, and guts got it done. Huge respect, and frankly, I can't wait to return and spend more time getting to know him.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAll in all, Triple Crown is a very special and unique addition to our Omachi lineup and I anticipate drinking a lot of it! :)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44251084226716,"sku":"","price":37.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/sankan.png?v=1721840465"},{"product_id":"gokyo-five-kioke-zukuri-kimoto-junmai-5-red","title":"Gokyo Five Kioke Zukuri Kimoto Junmai \"5 Red\"","description":"","brand":"COHO","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44326705430684,"sku":null,"price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Gokyo5red.png?v=1723250295"},{"product_id":"kirei-hachiku-muroka-nama-genshu","title":"Kirei \"Hachiku\" Muroka Nama Genshu","description":"\u003cp\u003eDense, unctuous, and lingering. Hachiku is made with a stunning 89% Koji and a five-stage fermentation process; resulting in high amounts of sweetness, umami, and acidity—all in perfect balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44489735700636,"sku":"","price":30.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Screenshot2025-10-08at2.28.37PM.png?v=1782191036"},{"product_id":"tamazakura-yuuyuu-kankan-junmai-cup","title":"Tamazakura Yuuyuu Kankan Junmai Cup","description":"\u003cp\u003eLocated in the mountains of Shimane, Tamazakura is a tiny brewery run by two brothers. For a very long time this sake was only consumed by locals. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTamazakura's special release junmai cup 'Yuyu Kankan'-- literally translated to leisurely hot sake--is a pun referring to being easygoing and leisurely. This casual sake is crafted with Gohyakumangoku grown in neighboring Onan-cho. When you open the lid, you'll notice the colour is deep and toffee toned – this is because the sake is aged and unfiltered. This Junmaishu shatters the conventional expectations of cup sake: it's anything but ordinary, with a subtle yet rich flavor. Enjoy at room temperature or warmed. It has the versatility of warm rice, so try it with a myriad of meals!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44646278791324,"sku":"","price":9.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/tamazakurakankan.png?v=1734928487"},{"product_id":"juji-asahi-kimoto-omachi-junmai-chokarakuchi-kagamigusa","title":"Juji Asahi Kimoto Omachi Junmai Chokarakuchi \"Kagamigusa\" BY2020","description":"\u003cp\u003eElegant, refined flavors that show the unique expression of the Omachi rice, grown in a single paddy in Okayama. Complex and layered woody notes, accented by hints of yogurt and subtle fruit notes.  \u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45173318385820,"sku":null,"price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/jujiasahiKagamigusajunmaiomachi.png?v=1754432220"},{"product_id":"tenon-tsuchigumo","title":"Tenon Tsuchigumo \"Earth Dive Spider\" Kimoto Junmai 5BY","description":"","brand":"MITCHELL","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46605952221340,"sku":null,"price":47.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Tsuchigumo.png?v=1777984094"},{"product_id":"mukyu-tenon-junmai-daiginjo","title":"Mukyu Tenon Junmai Daiginjo","description":"","brand":"MITCHELL","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46605953204380,"sku":null,"price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/MukyuTenonKimotoJunmaiDaiginjo.png?v=1778002869"},{"product_id":"gokyo-junmai-nama-natsuzake","title":"Gokyo Junmai Nama Natsuzake","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e[Preorder: Arriving Tuesday, 7\/7]\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSummertime brings with it glorious sunshine, feelings of inner warmth, and this sensational seasonal sake! Gokyo Junmai Nama is the perfect summer brew, made with both Yamadanishiki and Nihonbare rice grown in Yamaguchi prefecture. These rice strains, together with Association No. 1801 and 9E yeast, deliver a balanced, enlivening acidity like that of lychee or fresh-squeezed lemonade. Serve cold on a summer day for ultimate satisfaction.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"COHO","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46965467709596,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/GokyoJunmainatsunamazake.png?v=1783011884"},{"product_id":"gangi-junmai-ginjo-natsu-kara","title":"Gangi Junmai Ginjo Natsu-kara","description":"","brand":"COHO","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47149033816220,"sku":null,"price":52.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Ganginatsukarakuchijunmai.png?v=1783014373"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/collections\/r_09.gif?v=1669496176","url":"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/collections\/chugoku.oembed?page=3","provider":"Sunflower Sake","version":"1.0","type":"link"}