Kidoizumi Junmai Muroka Nama Genshu Yamahai Hanafubuki "Pink Label"
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Kidoizumi Shuzo, 木戸泉酒造
Isumi-shi, Chiba prefecture
Rice: Hanafubuki (Saitama, organic)
Polishing: 60%
Grade: Junmai Ginjo Muroka Nama Genshu
Starter: proprietary Hot Yamahai method
Water: hard
ABV: 18%
Brewery website: https://www.kidoizumi.jp/en/about/
Chiba prefecture lies between Tokyo Bay and the Pacific Ocean, a verdant area traditionally known for prolific farming. The Kuroshio (“black salt”) current flows around Chiba’s shores, which keeps it relatively warmer in winter and cooler in summer than neighboring Tokyo.
Kidoizumi was founded in 1879, and is currently run by the fifth generation owner-toji of the Shoji family, Hayato Shoji. It is the only brewery in Japan that uses the Hot-Yamahai method, developed by Hayato’s grandfather in the 1950s. In a traditional yamahai sake the starter of the sake is left exposed to the air for several days to naturally develop lactic acid, and needs cool temperatures to avoid getting contaminated by unwanted bacteria. Despite its location in relatively warm Chiba, Kidoizumi developed a method where large amounts of lactic acid producing bacteria are cultivated on the premises are added to a starter kept at very high temperature.
The result is a unique full bodied, multi-layered taste which is completely unique to their brewery. Their namazake (unpasteurized sake) has a unique combination of acidity and sweetness, complex floral notes and a rich mouthfeel. Because of the unique method of production, it is a very stable sake once opened. It pairs excellently with bold flavors and has a special magic with grilled meats.
In addition Kidoizumi are proud to use locally grown rice that meets their standards, embracing traditional growing techniques and banning the use of chemical fertilizers. They were one of the first pioneers for the organic movement in Japan, skirting the rules during the decades when the government controlled all rice sales and production methods. We like their rebellious spirit and are glad they applied it to sake making!
Follow the usual advice for Junmai Ginjo and look to dishes with a juicy, fruit element, like pork with rhubarb sauce or apple compote, Vada pav with a hefty dollop of fruit chutney, fresh cherry, goat cheese and green pea, Calamansi chicken, scallop crudo with mint and pomelo, sour orange-marinated carnitas...
Cheese pairing: Viamala (Switzerland), Rogue River Blue
