Heiwa Shuzo KID Junmai Daiginjo Kansai Sake is a masterpiece of Japanese craftsmanship, offering a vibrant bouquet of cherries, pear, mango, and delicate white flower blossoms. This premium junmai daiginjo sake, crafted with rice polished to 50%, boasts a silky texture, nuanced fruitiness, and a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Ideal for special occasions, it delivers a clean, refreshing finish that complements its rich and elegant sake rice flavors. Best enjoyed chilled, it pairs beautifully with sushi, sashimi, or shellfish, making it an exquisite and versatile choice for aficionados and novices alike.
Process & Profile
Heiwa Shuzo KID Junmai Daiginjo is an exceptional sake crafted by Heiwa Brewing Company, located in the charming Wakayama prefecture of Japan. Known for producing some of the finest sakes, Heiwa Shuzo utilizes high-quality Yamadanishiki rice polished to 50% of its original size, showcasing the craftsmanship behind Junmai Daiginjo sake. This sake is made with pure ingredients – rice, water, and koji mold – without any added alcohol, which enhances its depth and natural sweetness. The brewery also harnesses soft spring water from the Koyasan temple area, ensuring a refined and crisp profile. This effort exemplifies the pinnacle of sake brewing artistry.
Tasting Notes
KID Junmai Daiginjo offers a vibrant symphony of fruity and floral flavors. On the nose, it delights with aromas of cherries, pear, mango, and white flower blossoms. On the palate, expect a luscious medley of juicy guava, white flowers, melon, and bright citrus, perfectly balanced by a subtle hint of astringency and a refreshing, clean finish. This sake embodies a velvety mouthfeel with a “fruit basket” taste that is upfront yet cleanses the palate effortlessly, leaving a whisper of sweetness and acidity.
What Makes It Special
This sake represents the highest level of craftsmanship in the Junmai Daiginjo category, which accounts for only the top 3% of sake production. It reflects Heiwa Shuzo's dedication to excellence, as evidenced by its International Wine Challenge Brewer of the Year awards in 2019 and 2020. "KID" also carries a playful and energetic personality, named after "Kisshu Fudo," symbolizing the environment of Wakayama and the imaginative spirit of the brewery. Its versatility and elegance make it ideal for special occasions or refined everyday enjoyment.
How to Enjoy
For the best experience, serve Heiwa KID Junmai Daiginjo chilled to preserve its delicate and nuanced flavors. Pair it with light and sophisticated dishes such as sashimi, sushi, shellfish, or crab to complement its fruity profile. Alternatively, enjoy it as an aperitif to unwind and discover its layered complexity. For an adventurous pairing, try it with creamy or slightly spicy dishes to create a magical flavor interaction. Use sake glasses or cups that enhance its vibrant aroma to truly appreciate its charm.
Indulge in the playful elegance of Heiwa Shuzo KID Junmai Daiginjo – a sake that redefines luxury with every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Heiwa Shuzo KID Junmai Daiginjo?
Heiwa Shuzo KID Junmai Daiginjo is a premium sake brewed in Wakayama, Japan, using rice polished to at least 50%, soft mountain spring water, and traditional brewing techniques. It is celebrated for its fruity and floral aromas, elegant flavor profile, and clean, smooth finish.
How does Junmai Daiginjo differ from other sake types?
Junmai Daiginjo is the highest grade of sake and is made with rice polished down to at least 50% of its original size, with no added alcohol. It delivers exceptional craftsmanship, offering complex, delicate flavors and elevated aromatics. This type of sake is often reserved for special occasions or enjoyed as a refined drinking experience.
What does the KID Junmai Daiginjo taste like?
KID Junmai Daiginjo features a vibrant bouquet of cherries, pear, mango, and white flower blossoms. The taste includes rich notes of pear, melon, apple, and honey, balanced with a smooth, clean finish that disappears elegantly on the palate.
What foods pair well with KID Junmai Daiginjo?
This sake pairs beautifully with seafood dishes, such as sushi, sashimi, crab, and oysters. Its fruity and bright profile complements both lighter fare and rich dishes, making it a versatile option for refined meals.
What is the ideal serving temperature for this sake?
Heiwa Shuzo KID Junmai Daiginjo is best enjoyed chilled. This serving temperature preserves its delicate floral aromas and nuanced flavors, offering the best tasting experience.
Can KID Junmai Daiginjo be stored at room temperature?
For long-term storage, KID Junmai Daiginjo should be kept in a cool, dark place, preferably refrigerated to maintain its freshness. Once opened, consume it within a few days to enjoy its full flavor profile.
What makes Heiwa Shuzo's brewing process unique?
Heiwa Shuzo uses pristine mountain water from the Koyasan area and carefully selected sake rice to create sake that reflects the natural environment. The brewery's soft water and innovative techniques, such as gentle pasteurization, ensure a fresh and refined product.
Where does the name “KID” come from?
The name "KID" is derived from combining "Kishu" (the region's name in Wakayama Prefecture) and "Fudo" (meaning environment). It reflects the sake's playful, bright, and energetic character, aimed at appealing to new generations of sake enthusiasts.
Can this sake be enjoyed warm?
While Junmai Daiginjo sake is generally recommended to be served chilled to highlight its refined and delicate taste, some people enjoy experimenting with serving it warm. However, warming may alter its nuanced flavors.
What achievements has Heiwa Shuzo received?
Heiwa Shuzo gained international recognition by winning the prestigious Brewer of the Year award at the International Wine Challenge in both 2019 and 2020. These awards highlight the brewery's commitment to quality and innovation.