{"title":"Okan — Warm-Friendly Sake","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"tamagawa-heart-of-oak","title":"Tamagawa Junmai Lot 2023 \"Heart of Oak\"","description":"\u003cp\u003ePuerh tea, kukicha tea, macadamia nuts, wet wool, lanolin extract, rotting wood in the coastal rainforest, asafoetida, S\u0026amp;B curry powder, fermented honey, heritage corn grits, toffee, boiled peanuts, roasted sweet potato, salt water taffy, crispy chicken, dried apple rings.... a tannin-like grip and a finish that keeps going....\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWait, what? \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cem\u003eway\u003c\/em\u003e-too-affordable aged Junmai \"Heart of Oak\" from one \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eof Kyoto's most irreverent and groundbreaking\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e toji, Philip Harper, \u003c\/span\u003ehas long been my go-to Kitchen Magnum. I keep a 1.8L isshobin bottle hidden above my kitchen cabinet, and I nip on it from time to time... amping up sauces, having a little post-dinner cheese, pouring a snifter for guests after dinner. The longer it stays open, the better it gets. \u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"720ml","offer_id":40935791198364,"sku":"","price":36.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"1800ml","offer_id":41167818784924,"sku":"","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/heart_of_oak.png?v=1721883828"},{"product_id":"tamagawa-time-machine","title":"Tamagawa Junmai Koshu \"Time Machine\" 2022","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eDeep, complex, gently aged, made with a high proportion of koji. Delicious r\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eoom temp to lightly warmed. Based on a 1712 recipe.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eTastes and feels like\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e: Toasted hazelnut, mead, white soy sauce, golden raisins, crispy chicken skin, decaying fall leaves, dates, acorns, dried mushrooms, walnut butter, roasted squash, maple syrup, sweet onion marmalade, fenugreek, roasted yellow beets.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"300ml","offer_id":40935791263900,"sku":"","price":31.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/time_machine.png?v=1721883825"},{"product_id":"rihaku-origin-of-purity","title":"Rihaku Junmai Ginjo Nama Genshu \"Origin of Purity\"","description":"\u003cdiv data-en-clipboard=\"true\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"\u003eThis 2026 release is quite a bit more juicy than past years-- where I'd ordinarily categorize it with the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/search?q=terada+honke\u0026amp;_pos=1\u0026amp;_psq=terada+honke\u0026amp;_ss=e\u0026amp;_v=1.0\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eTerada Honke's\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/search?q=kidoizumi\u0026amp;options%5Bprefix%5D=last\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eKidoizumi's\u003c\/a\u003e, this year it's a fresher sort of wild card. Notes of honeysuckle, rose, cantaloupe, nougat, sweet carrot juice, fresh ginger, vanilla and loquat dance giddily on the palate, taking me somewhere deep into my sensory past. The palate is full and flavorful, with that natural sort of carrot-root bass notes balancing the gingery, floral high notes. The finish has a buzzy heat-- not alcohol, not astringency-- that I can only describe as the burn of fresh ginger beer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-en-clipboard=\"true\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"\u003eRihaku fans: Origin of Purity is at once totally unlike the rest of the Rihaku line (subtle, mineral, low volume), but simultaneously the truest expression of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethe brewery, the passion project of its owner, and the beating heart from which Dreamy Clouds and Wandering Poet emanate. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-en-clipboard=\"true\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-en-clipboard=\"true\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"\u003eWhen now-president and 5th generation kuramoto Yuichiro Tanaka was studying at university (Todai, Tokyo Agricultural University fermentation department) his focus was on flower yeasts. A handful of breweries, for instance Amabuki, now specialize in sake brewed using yeasts derived from flowers-- this is thanks to the research Tanaka-san contributed to. And when he returned to his home brewery, he created a line of sake-- Rihaku-- which is delicious and clean, super mountain-influenced flavors, truly among my favorites.  Which is why Origin of Purity-- undiluted at 17%, made with Shimane Omachi rice, utilizing flower yeast-- is such a stunning departure from the rest of the line, and yet, feels like it belongs.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Columbia","offers":[{"title":"720ml","offer_id":41157708284060,"sku":"","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Rihaku_OOP.png?v=1721857589"},{"product_id":"tamagawa-ice-breaker","title":"Tamagawa Junmai Ginjo Namazake \"Ice Breaker\" (2025 vtg)","description":"\u003cp\u003e2026: This year we're in full brown butter mode! Not as dry, oily, or funky as it has been...great regardless. Reads a little more properly of a junmai ginjo, or is it just me who's changed? Notes of ultra ripe banana, a little melon, fleshy and a bit fatty like guanabana or creamy tropical fruits. Caju! I'm really looking forward to letting this one age and evolve a bit, seeing where it goes. -Nina\u003c!-- notionvc: 81cb620a-d4b9-4844-a8ba-7d4550efff00 --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn unusually bold, earthy, complex namazake which is aged at room temperature for a year and a half before its eventual release in Summer. Ice breaker is so named for its ability to be served over ice: the rich, concentrated flavors withstand the addition of ice, but like all of toji Philip Harper's sake, it is also delicious served warm. On the nose, Ice Breaker is earthy, with raw macadamia nuts and sunflower seeds leading the way-- fresh coriander and grassy notes lending freshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eFrom the brewery: \"Ice Breaker alleviates the heat and humidity of the Japanese summer, just as nihonshu breaks the ice in social situations. Deep-flavoured, spicey unpasteurized genshu over ice is both refreshing and satisfying, and the intricate variations of flavour and aroma as the temperature and alcohol level shifts are endlessly fascinating. The sake world's first penguin!\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTamagawa’s house style is very unique, and might be best characterized by their committment to ambient temperature sake aging even when the sake is nama (unpasteurized) as it is here. Tamagawa’s style is full bodied, robust, often genshu (undiluted) and always with a very umami-forward, concentrated, somewhat briney character. It follows that their interpretation of natsuzake is true to this house style, embracing the tradition of enjoying whisky on the rocks! Ice Breaker encourages you to drink it iced, so that the heady concentration can dilute and evolve over the course of the drink. (I like a squeeze of lemon, too!)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e2024 notes: On the palate, it is classic Tamagawa style: soft, rich, deep, earthy, but with some fruit for levity: fresh apricot, red apple, bosc pear. An oily, tahini and sunflower seed butter aftertaste, as well as the wildness of fresh grasses, grass seeds, turned earth, and fallen leaves brings you back to earth.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"500ml","offer_id":41157708644508,"sku":"","price":34.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Tamagawa_IceB.png?v=1737506169"},{"product_id":"shichi-hon-yari-junmai","title":"Shichi Hon Yari Junmai","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDried mushroom on the nose, viscous and creamy in weight and texture. Bright grapefruit and mineral notes lend structure to the palate. Classic Shichi Hon Yari crisp finish. Delicious room temp and warm.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eShichi Hon Yari Junmai is the classic representation of the brewery’s style with its traditional and modern dimensions. Earthy and rich aromatics and flavors meet elegance and softness in the finish, while cutting minerality and acidity afford modern dimensionality.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Columbia","offers":[{"title":"720ml","offer_id":44542456365212,"sku":"","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/SHY_junmai.png?v=1730518684"},{"product_id":"amabuki-junmai-omachi-yamahai","title":"Amabuki Junmai Omachi Yamahai Cup","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe true expressions of the marigold flower are noticeable both on the palate and nose of this sake, and are amplified by the Yamahai-jikomi brewing method's signature funky style. Excellent chilled, but the personality of Omachi rice and Yamahai-jikomi really shine when served gently warmed. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"COHO","offers":[{"title":"180ml","offer_id":41331640336540,"sku":"","price":10.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/amabuki_orange.png?v=1721883829"},{"product_id":"sempuku-shinriki-85-kimoto-muroka-genshu","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":"Columbia","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":"akishika-okarakuchi-super-dry-junmai-ginjo-muroka-nama-genshu","title":"Akishika Okarakuchi \"Super Dry\" Junmai Ginjo Muroka Nama Genshu","description":"\u003cdiv data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\" data-en-clipboard=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eThe dry, dirty martini of the sake world. Like a spiced gin distilled with clove, almond and grains, the mid-palate brings a resonant, rich intensity while the finish ends sharply-- a crisp, briney clarity. Faint, unassuming aromatics of soft pear, white pepper and rice bran give way on the palate to deep, ricey umami: kombu dashi, five spice and apple chip. In addition to being super dry (SMV +15), this nama is also undiluted: high in flavor intensity as well as ABV, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eand also high in acidity (2.6): roughly double your typical junmai. An overwhelmingly crisp, refreshing bottle which is equally delighftul on ice as it is warm.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41484830081180,"sku":"","price":48.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/products\/AkishikiOkarakuchi_530x_2x_919426a7-fbbe-4a0f-9092-f583cac305bc_1.png?v=1671613713"},{"product_id":"daishichi-minowamon-junmai-daiginjo","title":"Daishichi Minowamon Junmai Daiginjo","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe very first premium sake to be produced with \u003cem\u003ehenpei\u003c\/em\u003e, or flat polished, rice. Flat polishing hugs the shape of the starch core more tightly, leaving less residual crude protein on the sides of the grain than the conventional method. Rice flat polished to 70% has a similar profile to 58% by regular polishing. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.daishichi.com\/en\/waza\/henpei.html\"\u003eMore on this method can be found on Daishichi's English site!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\" id=\"docs-internal-guid-cac898d5-7fff-509f-614c-ea78ef6428d3\"\u003eOn the nose, rich buttery shortbread, fino sherry, chamomile and lemon zest. Minowamon just feels so elegant on the palate- super round, super buttery, super smooth. A subtle, crisp minerality lays against a backdrop of buttery lemon shortbread. Nothing too complex, but gorgeously balanced with a flavor profile you don’t often see in Junmai Daiginjo. Drinks fresh and clean chilled. Gently warmed, the lactic, umami depth one would expect from an expertly crafted Kimoto comes out to shine. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Columbia","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42114054914204,"sku":"","price":108.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/minowamon.png?v=1721883830"},{"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":"Columbia","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42114064187548,"sku":"","price":38.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Kinoko.png?v=1721883828"},{"product_id":"shinkame-junmai","title":"Shinkame Junmai, \"Turtle God\"","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLike sitting in a bamboo throne, in the middle of Fall, eating persimmon shortbread with French vanilla ice cream while orange and red leaves collect on the ground around you.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThere are very few breweries that produce sake with this distinctive, evocative, deeply earthy aged aroma; I can think of only Shinkame and Kawashiri shuzo. Notes of fallen leaves, hoshigaki persimmon, old books, cocoa powder, underground caves, vanilla, marzipan and bamboo. Even at room temperature it spreads throughout the mouth like melting vanilla ice cream, coating the tongue and persisting for ages, finishing dry and earthy. At a warm 105F, the persimmon and spice notes really come out while the softer vanilla notes move to the background. Just phenomenal.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"MITCHELL","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42462420336796,"sku":"","price":48.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/shinkame.png?v=1721883829"},{"product_id":"emishiki-junmai-sensation-white","title":"Emishiki Junmai Genshu Kimoto \"Sensation\" White","description":"\u003cp\u003e Vanilla, apricot, kiwi, mandarin segments and lilies on the nose, while the palate offers beautiful tension between soft, ricey sweetness, acidity, and prominent shibumi (astringency). A well-balanced and shockingly affordable sake for all of the care Emishiki Shuzo has taken in it, and all of the awards it has received. This would be well priced at double the cost.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"COHO","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42531661414556,"sku":"","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/emishiki_white.png?v=1721883829"},{"product_id":"hakutsuru-futsushu-toji-kan","title":"Hakutsuru Futsushu \"Toji-Kan\"","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eToji-kan is\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e beautifully balanced, lovely warm and hot (or room temp), with a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edeep\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e ricey sweetness. The \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003etypical\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e confected, marshmallowy notes of cheap futsushu are absent, instead flavors of chestnut, kinako, and marzipan. This is a very unique release from Hakutsuru-- a personal project from a beloved retiring toji, using ingredients far above grade for futsushu (\"regular,\" table sake)-- and its price is incredibly competitive for the quality. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAt Sunflower, I am deeply committed to small breweries but I give myself permission to flex from time to time when the argument is compelling. This is one such case. Making an excellent $21 sake available to my customers (not everyone can afford a $35 bottle, for sure!) is more important than sticking to dogma (I think!)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Columbia","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42590564614300,"sku":"","price":21.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Tojikan.png?v=1699562193"},{"product_id":"kenbishi-kuromatsu-honjozo-900ml","title":"Kenbishi \"Kuromatsu\" Honjozo (900ml)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNutty, ricey, toasty, savory goodness. One of the best honjozo on the market.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe younger brother of \"Mizuho\", aged 1-3 years and made from a mysterious, proprietary blend of rice, techniques, and historic methods. \"A stopped clock tells the right time twice a day\" is one of the mantras of Kenbishi--  they firmly stick to their historic recipe (with \u003cem\u003every\u003c\/em\u003e rare changes, such as reverting to wooden fermenters about a decade ago)-- never chasing trends or brand new techniques.  By remaining committed to their old methods, Kenbishi maintains a loyal following of fans...myself included. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKuromatsu honjozo is perfect for heating, and shows its full range of flavors and aromas once it hits 120F or higher. Just prepare a small pot of hot water, submerge a sake carafe (or heatproof vessel) of honjozo, and after a minute or so pull it out. Like Kenbishi Junmai Mizuho, gently warmed (think bath water) is my preferred temp.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"COHO","offers":[{"title":"900ml","offer_id":42622205788316,"sku":"","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/kenbishi.png?v=1721883827"},{"product_id":"matsunotsukasa-kimoto-junmai","title":"Matsuse Shuzo Matsunotsukasa Kimoto Junmai","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eBrewer’s Description: This is brewed using the Kimoto zukuri method, which reexamines the fundamentals of sake brewing. This is a traditional way of making sake that utilizes the power of nature. At our brewery, we do not add yeast, but instead brew sake the old-fashioned way, with the help of lactic acid bacteria naturally grown by the yeast living in the brewery (kura-tsuki yeast), which survives and selects other microorganisms. Fermentation with brewer’s yeast gives it a natural umami core, moderate acidity and sharpness, and a mild taste that is typical of Matsu no Tsukasa.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSunflower notes:\u003cbr\u003eMy favorite sake, of over 100 tasted, at Sake Day 2023. I believe that even if I had tasted all 200, my mind would be made up.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMatsunotsukasa is imported in tiny quantities against high demand by the extremely selective and thoughtful importer, BMMI imports, which is co-managed by beverage hero Alex Bernardo of Vineyard Gate in Millbrae, California. Through the coordinated efforts of BMMI and Fifth Taste, and after 6 weeks of patience, I'm so thrilled to have Matsunotsukasa Kimoto to share with Portland. Almost ALL bottles are allocated to club (no hate to the rest of yall, but seasonal\/monthly club is the best way to get the rare stuff) so if you see one in stock, jump on it before I do. \u003cbr\u003eWe'll see more come around next year when the next batch is finished brewing.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-pm-slice=\"0 1 []\" data-en-clipboard=\"true\"\u003eThis is a sake that's a bit hard to describe accurately. Tasting notes wouldn't do it any justice. It has an incredible, fairly dry, austere, lovely texture, with notes of fresh cream, spring water, plump wheat berries and rum-raisin bread pudding. The acidity is shockingly moderate for a natural fermentation kimoto, which speaks to the special care and attention Matsunotsukasa grants to their process. It reminds me of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/products\/moriki-shuzo-hanabusa-junmai-yamahai-muroka-nama-genshu\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHanabusa\u003c\/a\u003e in the use of organic rice and low-intervention methods, but with elevated and elegant results.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHonestly-- I could drink this all day, and never tire.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42792690909340,"sku":"","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/MatsunotsukasaKimoto.png?v=1699972056"},{"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":"emishiki-junmai-genshu-kimoto-sensation-black","title":"Emishiki Junmai Genshu Kimoto \"Sensation Black\"","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe nose on this junmai kimoto is light, fresh, grapefruity-lemon-lime with soft pale florals and a little sweet mochi. The palate-- full flavored, satisfyingly broad and textured in the mid palate, fairly high in acidity, and \u003cem\u003eextremely\u003c\/em\u003e balanced in its delicate sweetness (think Senkin, Kuheiji or Gangi). To my fellow winos: I'm getting the most gorgeous ripe chablis and muscadet vibes and I am simply, utterly in love!!! \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the palate: orange oil, vanilla custard, rice cream, mamey and tart, unctuous mango. The finish is exhilirating, zippity-do-da acidity! For $33? Nonsense!\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA well-balanced and shockingly affordable sake for all of the care Emishiki Shuzo has taken in it, and all of the awards it has received. This would be well priced at double the cost.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"COHO","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44454179700892,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Emishikiblack.png?v=1726275601"},{"product_id":"heiwa-aka-kid","title":"Heiwa \"Aka KID\"","description":"\u003cp\u003eIf a warm slice of butter mochi topped with a glob of ranier cherry jam was a sake\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44489733800092,"sku":"","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/KIDDOAKA.png?v=1730238173"},{"product_id":"shonai-bijin-kimoto-junmai-hiyaoroshi","title":"Dewanoyuki Shonai Bijin Kimoto Junmai Hiyaoroshi (2026)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\" id=\"docs-internal-guid-5f69acc7-7fff-05e4-3c72-817c33e2684a\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"font-weight: normal;\" id=\"docs-internal-guid-46691c8b-7fff-b420-05b9-8543ec7dcb35\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eMy first-impression notes are pretty loud, verging on desserty, although this isn't a sweet sake by any measure: custard cream-filled momiji manju, McGriddles, mont blanc cake. But it's refreshingly astringent and has a good short finish to contrast the fullness of the mid-palate. Straightforward easy drinkin' chilled, but room temperature and above is where its character really shines. The cream notes expand across the palate around 120~140F, and wrap up neatly with a gentle spicy bow.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"COHO","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44534391373980,"sku":"","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/dewanoyuki_shonai_bijin_hiyaoroshi.png?v=1790613612"},{"product_id":"daijiro-as-time-goes-by","title":"Daijiro Junmai Kimoto \"As Time Goes By\"","description":"\u003cp\u003eNotes of straw bales, vanilla, kinako, brown rice nuka (flour), very much on the spicy and dry side, very toasty. According to one of the kurabito who I had the opportunity to taste with this September, \"the label is an image of well matured. Color of moonlight.\" Incredible warmed up. Super moody and lovely. Pasteurized and aged 3 years at room temperature- undiluted, at a moderate 16% alcohol.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c!-- notionvc: 1c8aaf21-7b7b-4159-a519-1b20e48bc2c3 --\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c!-- notionvc: 6f60edd8-48f6-4933-8de8-21f200b6a831 --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44594235900060,"sku":"","price":38.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Daijiro_as_time_goes_by_hiire.png?v=1756177818"},{"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":"chochin-junmai-nama-genshu-hattannishiki-60-長珍酒造","title":"Chochin Junmai Ginjo Nama Genshu Hattannishiki 60 Shinbunshi BY6","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;\" id=\"docs-internal-guid-34d395a3-7fff-73a2-d7fd-f3b1d7b08c44\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 9pt; font-family: Karla,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eNotes of fine cocoa powder, coca cola, German chocolate cake, sparkling mineral water, Fresca, and white grapefruit swirl together on the palate. I get an initial impression that is simultaneously sharp and dry x velvety and sweet, which leads into an intensely flavorful mid-palate, segueing into a weightless, celery \u0026amp; pomelo-inflected finish. Absolutely gorgeous.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFriends of mine recommend leaving a small bottle (~300ml) out at room temperature in the dark for about a month to soften it before warming, if that’s your jam. Diluting with a bit of good water will soften it further. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44702702010524,"sku":null,"price":38.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Chochin_Hattannishiki_60.png?v=1736738949"},{"product_id":"kameman-junmai-genmai-zake","title":"Kameman Junmai Genmai-zake \/ Genmaishu","description":"\u003cp\u003eSake made from 100% unpolished brown rice is a true rarity!  Kameman takes great care to select rice that is grown without the use of pesticides, since the character of the whole grain will be expressed in the final product. Brewing a brown rice sake is no simple feat- Hananishiki rice (Kumamoto's flagship sakamai) is gently crushed, rather than polished, so the koji can penetrate the starch core. Soaking and steaming takes twice as long, and additions are made very carefully by the toji to keep the fermentation on track. The sake is aged at the brewery before release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe nose on this reads like a lighter koshu- the classic notes of caramel and dried fruit hit right away. But the first sip shows this is truly its own thing. I get notes of \u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-e9b7d3bb-7fff-6462-5de9-543e2f7e1f88\" style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003estone roasted Japanese sweet potatoes, shochu lees, short crust, whole wheat cookie kit kats, dark brown sugar, buckwheat flower honey, sorghum syrup, baekseju...I could go on. Lovely chilled, and gently warmed to nurukan (~40°C), but I find that it really shines at room temperature in a snifter.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"JS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44702772920476,"sku":"","price":32.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/KamemanGenmaishu.png?v=1736741189"},{"product_id":"haccoba-sansho-lemonade","title":"haccoba Sansho Lemonade (2026)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\"Sansho Lemonade\" is a craft sake collaboration between haccoba, a craft sake brewery in Fukushima, the restaurant TANIGAKI in Hyogo, and our dear friend Takasaki Jo of Takasaki no Okan in Tokyo. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTANIGAKI makes a sansho lemonade at their restaurant for diners, but the leftover press cake-- a mix of fresh lemon peel and Asakura sansho pepper-- is diverted from the trash, and instead goes to Fukushima where it is infused into this unique sake, where it lends a mellow but super-delicious refreshing and tart citrusy lemon-sansho flavor. A little bit of green cardamom is added for complexity and depth. The citrus flavor is rich with aromatic oils, not the sharp acidity of fresh juice.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTakasaki no Okan was involved in conceptualization, recipe development and of course, heating: okan is a colloquialism meaning hot sake. This sake is delicious whether chilled or warmed, as a highball, paired intentionally or unintentionally. We're huge fans, and so excited to have been involved in getting the first Japanese craft sake to American shores.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFor a full background on the brewery and the craft sake category,\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/blogs\/learning\/the-japanese-craft-sake-movement-haccobas-american-debut\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e read our article here\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sunflower Sake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44785580900508,"sku":"","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/haccobasansholemon.png?v=1747265631"},{"product_id":"tamazakura-yamahai-junmai","title":"Tamazakura Junmai Yamahai Gohyakumangoku 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003eVelvety-textured, smooth aged yamahai made with local Gohyakumangoku rice from this gem of a small brewery in Shimane. Dry but not sharp, the aging has delivered layers of nutty, toasted flavor and softened its hard edges. I get comforting notes of toasted Scottish oats with brown butter, maple and candycap mushroom. But really, I think this sake is all about the texture and mouthfeel...really exceptional, particularly room temp and warmed. I'd love to enjoy this with some tare-grilled eel.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44891128660124,"sku":"","price":43.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Tamazakura_Yamahai_Junmai_Gohyakumangoku.png?v=1744152348"},{"product_id":"book-of-atsukan-by-takasaki-jo-preorder","title":"BOOK OF ATSUKAN by Takasaki Jo","description":"\u003cdiv style=\"font-size: 16px; color: #333232; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-family: 'Gill Sans','Gill Sans Nova','Gill Sans MT',Calibri,'Trebuchet MS',sans‑serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0; padding: 0;\"\u003eChef Jo Takasaki hardly needs any introduction here. Many of you have met him or had the pleasure of enjoying his atsukan\/okan (warmed sake) at Sunflower's classes, Fuyu Fest 2024 \u0026amp; 2025, during last February's Okan Lover West Coast Tour, or even at his Tokyo restaurant, Takasaki no Okan (\u003cem\u003ewe've dined there 5 times and it is always stunning, mind boggling good-- it comes with my highest recommendation\u003c\/em\u003e). \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJo decided some years ago he wanted to share the craft of hot sake with the world and reverse the wholly undeserved negative image it has garnered in the last few decades. Through his hot sake philosophy, he would also spread the word on the importance of natural farming in Japan, quality rice, supporting rural revitalization, and building community. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhile sake warming at home can be as simple as just having a favorite brew and a preferred temperature that you reach by microwave or water bath, as is often the case w\/ Japanese craft the sky is truly the limit. Sensing readiness by smell, using different chirori materials, stirring\/aeration technique, water bath temperature, selecting serveware, pairing with food effectively, blending and infusing... there are a million ways to play, reinvent, revitalize.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI was thrilled when Jo said he was writing a book and having it translated\/published in English to support this mission. We're incredibly honored to be entrusted with bringing it to the US. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOf course, if you're heading to his Tokyo restaurant you can also buy it in person from Jo for 8800 yen. (Jo is making the same $$ either way-- we pay retail, not a wholesale price, but you can save on shipping + our little margin this way).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note that $105 does NOT include US shipping.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTo ship the book by itself, please select the \"add shipping\" option- $10 by USPS. To pick up in person or ship the book with sake (including a forthcoming club pack), please select the \"book only\" option. This book can be added to any box of sake for no additional shipping charge.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA simplified summary of Jo's atsukan principles\u003cbr\u003e Jo's approach, background \u0026amp; philosophy\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eThanks to uyati for the photos- he bought one at Jo's recent Amsterdam event and spoke very highly of it!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sunflower Sake","offers":[{"title":"Book + US shipping","offer_id":45102080393372,"sku":null,"price":115.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Book only (pickup or add to club box\/sake order)","offer_id":45102080360604,"sku":null,"price":105.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Atsukan1.jpg?v=1751660737"},{"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":"uehara-furosen-nakagumi-junmai-ginjo-yamahai-mng","title":"Uehara Furosen Nakagumi Junmai Ginjo Yamahai MNG (6\/25 bottling)","description":"\u003cp\u003eUsing Yamadanishiki rice grown in Shiga prefecture, this junmai ginjo is viscous and robust, with a beautiful balance of juicy fruit notes like half-baked plum, a round softness at the start and end of the palate, and sharp, defining acidity that meanders into bittersweet, single origin chocolate-like intensity and long finish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrom\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: #0000ee;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/furosen.com\/\" title=\"Uehara Sake Brewery Official Site\" style=\"color: #0000ee;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ethe official website:\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan dir=\"auto\" style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cspan dir=\"auto\" style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\"\u003eOur company was founded in 1862 and has been brewing sake in the snowy northwest of Lake Biwa, bringing out the full flavor of the rice. We mainly brew Yamahai sake, using only temperature manipulation to attract and cultivate the natural yeast within the brewery, a traditional method of brewing sake brewed using the power of nature. We do not use machines to press the sake, but rather use a wooden barrel and balance press, which takes three days and three nights. The sake brewed over two months or more has a nostalgic acidity and a unique flavor with a mellow, firm texture that goes down smoothly, making it a genuine Japanese sake that can be enjoyed both cold and warm.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan dir=\"auto\" style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cspan dir=\"auto\" style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\"\u003eSake flavors are not limited to \"dry\" and \"sweet.\" There is also a flavor called \"umakuchi.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan dir=\"auto\" style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cspan dir=\"auto\" style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\"\u003eThe moment you put it in your mouth, the richness and sweetness of the rice spreads throughout your mouth, leaving a refreshing aftertaste as it passes down your throat and quickly disappears. This is truly delicious sake.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"JS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45348578328732,"sku":null,"price":47.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Furosenjunmaiginjonakagumi.png?v=1758581834"},{"product_id":"shichiken-furinbizan-junmai","title":"Shichiken Furinbizan Junmai","description":"\u003cp\u003eOn the nose I get cured lemon peel, green apple, muscat gummy candy and nectarine preserves. This brightness gives way to an impactful, rice-y, rich umami that spreads across the palette then softly fades.  Notes of buttered whole grain toast, congee, and green almond come through stark on a sake that feels so soft on the tongue. It's a shapeshifter! Cold, room temp, or warm, you really can't go wrong. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Columbia","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45379848863900,"sku":null,"price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/furinbizen.png?v=1759537403"},{"product_id":"daijiro-junmai-kimoto-yamadanishiki","title":"Daijiro Junmai Kimoto Yamadanishiki Namazake","description":"\u003cp\u003eRound and soft, a spike of acidity keeps it fresh, at its high points a bit like chardonnay...tropical, a little jammy...but with a prevailing deep, toasty, chocolate and cream softness. Incredibly gorgeous and deep, particularly with a few days or weeks of air. Warming to ~110-115 brings out the boston cream pie angle and opens everything up. Everything I want in an evening namagenshu sipper.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis sake does experience a little bit of bottle shock with travel, so do a quick decant or warming to bring it back to life, or give it a few weeks to relax on arrival. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c!-- notionvc: 1c8aaf21-7b7b-4159-a519-1b20e48bc2c3 --\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c!-- notionvc: 6f60edd8-48f6-4933-8de8-21f200b6a831 --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45560309874844,"sku":null,"price":38.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Daijiro_junmai_kimoto.png?v=1764012674"},{"product_id":"yasui-junmai-kimoto","title":"Yasui Junmai Kimoto 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003e\"The life of our sake is water.\" The brewery's well has been protected for generations.\u003cbr\u003eThe mellow brewing water from the Suzuka Mountains is the key to the quality of the sake.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45560360239260,"sku":null,"price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Yasuijunmaikimotosafetywell.png?v=1763058296"},{"product_id":"25-uehara-furosen-kamenoo-junmai-ginjo-yamahai-mng","title":"Uehara Furosen Kamenoo Junmai Ginjo Yamahai MNG","description":"\u003cp\u003eUsing Kamenoo rice, contracted directly from farmers in northern Aomori Prefecture, this junmai ginjo has a lighter body with a combination of delicate fruity ginjo characteristics, refined acidity, umami, and firm sweetness. Bitterness enters the finish and the overall experience reminds me of a really good pourover with chocolate covered cherries. Notes of five spice, rose petal, cocoa and coffee, long pepper, oak and root beer. ...At once sophisticated and playful, nostalgic.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrom\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: #0000ee;\"\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #0000ee;\" title=\"Uehara Sake Brewery Official Site\" href=\"http:\/\/furosen.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ethe official website:\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\" dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\" dir=\"auto\"\u003eOur company was founded in 1862 and has been brewing sake in the snowy northwest of Lake Biwa, bringing out the full flavor of the rice. We mainly brew Yamahai sake, using only temperature manipulation to attract and cultivate the natural yeast within the brewery, a traditional method of brewing sake brewed using the power of nature. We do not use machines to press the sake, but rather use a wooden barrel and balance press, which takes three days and three nights. The sake brewed over two months or more has a nostalgic acidity and a unique flavor with a mellow, firm texture that goes down smoothly, making it a genuine Japanese sake that can be enjoyed both cold and warm.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\" dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\" dir=\"auto\"\u003eSake flavors are not limited to \"dry\" and \"sweet.\" There is also a flavor called \"umakuchi.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\" dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: inherit;\" dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe moment you put it in your mouth, the richness and sweetness of the rice spreads throughout your mouth, leaving a refreshing aftertaste as it passes down your throat and quickly disappears. This is truly delicious sake.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"JS","offers":[{"title":"720ml","offer_id":46368687915164,"sku":null,"price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1800ml","offer_id":46368687882396,"sku":null,"price":102.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Furosenjunmaiginjokamenoo.png?v=1758579623"},{"product_id":"haccoba-twilight-brew","title":"haccoba Twilight Brew 2026","description":"\u003cp\u003eSavory-sweet, wild-fermented kimoto sake made with 88% polish omachi rice \u0026amp; ambient yeast is enlivened with top-notes of lemon peel, lavender and cracked juniper, while the deep umami of Japanese sencha tea resonate on the finish. A honeyed quality hints at evenings nestled beside a comforting cup of tea, while the herbal-green brightness reveals layers of complexity at each temperature.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrom the Smith Tea team: \"\u003cem\u003eDelightful notes of brandied pear, chevre, salted grapefruit, candied ginger, and pandan.\" \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"FIFTH","offers":[{"title":"Twilight Brew","offer_id":47252506509468,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Twilight Pack: 1x Twilight Brew + 1x Tokyo Twilight tea","offer_id":47252506542236,"sku":null,"price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Twilight Two Pack: 2x Twilight Brew + 1x Tokyo Twilight tea","offer_id":47252506575004,"sku":null,"price":110.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/haccoba_twilight_brew.png?v=1785388818"},{"product_id":"okan-lover-mini-sake-set-1","title":"Okan Lover Mini Sake Set","description":"\u003cp\u003eA selection of our favorite one-cups \u0026amp; small format for atsukan. Please note: selections may shift slightly from time to time, based on availability.\u003cbr\u003eThe Kenbishi Kuromatsu glass cup can be re-used as a tokkuri (a 180ml carafe, also usable as a vessel for warming) once empty. It's the perfect first tokkuri for heating the rest of your selections.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAn exploratory companion to Jo Takasaki's new book, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/products\/book-of-atsukan-by-takasaki-jo-preorder\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ethe BOOK of ATSUKAN\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e(For a set of premium 720ml bottles selected by Jo, see our \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/products\/okan-lover-premium-sake-set-1\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePremium Set\u003c\/a\u003e).\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sunflower Sake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47576104698012,"sku":null,"price":55.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"okan-lover-premium-sake-set-1","title":"Okan Lover Premium Sake Set","description":"\u003cp\u003eA selection of Jo's and our favorite bottles for atsukan. The core styles are all represented here:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ehaccoba Lemon Sansho Kasu Craft Sake (500ml) - Jo's collaboration sake, representing the potential of craft (fruit\/spice\/herbs added) sake for warming.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMukai Shuzo: Ine Mankai Junmai red rice sake (720ml) - Jo's signature. Complex notes of red fruit, spice, and earth from this unique red rice brew.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUehara Furosen Nakagumi (720ml) - Nina's signature. Explore the transformative potential of warming namazake.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDaijiro \"As Time Goes By\" (720ml) - A house favorite, exploring the natural affinity of aged flavors to warmth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHakutsuru \"Toji Kan\" Futsushu (720ml) - Sharing the simple joy of warm blue-collar sake, made well.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFukuraijun Hon Mirin (720ml) - Traditional, 3 year aged, sweet authentic mirin. We use it for blending, infusing, and serving with a warm frothed milk topper.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis set is the perfect companion to Jo Takasaki's English guide, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/products\/book-of-atsukan-by-takasaki-jo-preorder\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ethe BOOK of ATSUKAN\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e","brand":"Sunflower Sake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47576134025372,"sku":null,"price":284.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/IMG_6247.jpg?v=1789064242"},{"product_id":"tamagawa-daiginjo-kinsho","title":"Tamagawa Daiginjo \"Kinsho\"","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c!-- notionvc: 81cb620a-d4b9-4844-a8ba-7d4550efff00 --\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrom the brewery:\u003cem\u003e The most popular Tamagawa in the daiginjo range, and the first of our products ever to go overseas, chosen when it won double Gold Medals domestically and in the USA in 2007. With a silky viscosity on the palate and rich aromatics, it is a full-flavoured presence in the daiginjo class and an excellent food sake.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTamagawa’s house style is very unique, and might be best characterized by their committment to ambient temperature sake aging even when the sake is nama (unpasteurized). Tamagawa’s style is full bodied, robust, often genshu (undiluted) and always with a very umami-forward, concentrated, somewhat briney character. It follows that their interpretation of daiginjo is true to this house style and excellent served warm.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"720ml","offer_id":47828736639132,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/Tamagawakinsho_21e9a3c1-8f7f-46e9-a4a0-22fbda7a41c3.png?v=1791326518"},{"product_id":"copper-chirori","title":"Copper Chirori","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMade in Tsubame, Niigata, this chirori is ~1.5go capacity and perfect for warming sake to add a little brightness and zing. This chirori takes up 1 bottle of space in a box (ex: a 12-pack box can fit 11 bottles and one chirori.)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSpecifications:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csvg aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" width=\"8\" height=\"6\" viewbox=\"0 0 8 6\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"icon-chevron-down\"\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collapsible-tab__text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterial: Copper lined with tin\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDimensions: 2.76\" dia x 4.69\" ht (7cm dia x 11.9cm ht)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCapacity: 10 fl oz \/ 290 ml\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeight: 0.3 lbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Sunflower Sake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47930679853212,"sku":null,"price":58.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/copperchirori.png?v=1792104637"},{"product_id":"aluminum-chirori","title":"Aluminum Chirori","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMade in Japan, this ~2.5go capacity sake warmer is perfect for newcomers to sake warming, who aren't yet ready to take the dive on the more expensive copper or tin versions. This chirori takes up 1 bottle of space in a box (ex: a 12-pack box can fit 11 bottles and one chirori.)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csvg aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" width=\"8\" height=\"6\" viewbox=\"0 0 8 6\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"icon-chevron-down\"\u003e\n\n\n\u003c\/svg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"collapsible-tab__text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterial: Aluminum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDimensions: 16 fl oz \/ 360ml (2-Go)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Sunflower Sake","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47930683162780,"sku":null,"price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0590\/4075\/9964\/files\/aluminumchirori.png?v=1792104805"}],"url":"https:\/\/sunflowersake.com\/collections\/okan.oembed?page=4","provider":"Sunflower Sake","version":"1.0","type":"link"}