Frequently Asked Questions
Crafted by the renowned Nakao Sake Brewery in Hiroshima, Seikyo Takehara Junmai "Mirror of Truth" Sake is a testament to the mastery of traditional sake brewing. Made from premium local Hiroshima rice and softened local water, this Junmai sake offers a mellow, balanced profile with rich hints of honey, browned butter, and warming spices. Its layered umami and subtle earthiness pair beautifully with hearty dishes like fried oysters, Japanese katsu, or yakitori. Enjoy its versatile character at various temperatures—chilled, room temperature, or lightly warmed—to unlock its nuanced flavors. Celebrate authenticity with this quintessential jizake, honoring both its roots in Takehara and the artistry of true Japanese craftsmanship.
Process & Profile
Brewed by Nakao Sake Brewery in the historic town of Takehara, this sake reflects centuries of dedication to quality. "Mirror of Truth" is crafted with local Hiroshima table rice polished to 65%, soft mountain water, and koji mold, adhering to the pure Junmai tradition that excludes any added alcohol. The meticulous preparation of koji, taking over 50 hours, ensures a balanced and rich depth in flavor while embracing sake's signature multiple parallel fermentation process for a refined taste profile. With an alcohol content of 15% and an approachable Sake Meter Value (SMV) of +1, this sake offers a perfect blend of lightness and complexity that is designed to complement both casual and elegant occasions.Tasting Notes
Seikyo Takehara Junmai is celebrated for its soft, mellow character with a light and silky mouthfeel. Notes of honey, brown butter, and subtle hints of warming spices create a comforting, balanced experience. It finishes with crisp dryness, leaving a gentle but flavorful impression on the palate. Some reviewers also detect undertones of marshmallow sweetness, bright citrus, and ripe watermelon, lending layers of complexity. This sake's ability to seamlessly blend mild sweetness with dryness makes it a standout choice for sake newcomers and connoisseurs alike.What Makes It Special
The Seikyo "Mirror of Truth" name represents the brewery's philosophy—a sake that reflects the passion and authenticity of its creation. Using only locally sourced ingredients from Hiroshima, including table rice and pristine soft water, Seikyo honors the essence of jizake (local sake) production. The focus on a longer koji preparation period further enhances the sake's flavor depth and balance. The Nakao Sake Brewery, established in 1871, continues to uphold its reputation for excellence by crafting sakes that respect tradition while appealing to modern tastes. Their dedication has earned them accolades, including recognition at international wine challenges, showcasing the universal appeal of their sakes.How to Enjoy
Seikyo Takehara Junmai is highly versatile when it comes to serving temperatures and pairings. Here's how to make the most of it:- Serving Suggestions:
- Food Pairings:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Junmai sake, and how does it differ from other types of sake?
Junmai sake is a pure rice sake made exclusively from rice, water, koji mold, and yeast, without any added alcohol. It is known for its full-bodied richness, pronounced umami, and slightly higher acidity compared to other sake types. Unlike Junmai Ginjo or Junmai Daiginjo, basic Junmai sake is less polished, resulting in a robust and earthy flavor profile.
What are the key flavor notes of Seikyo Takehara Junmai "Mirror of Truth"?
Seikyo Takehara Junmai has a balanced and clean taste with subtle umami richness. Its gentle rice-forward flavors are complemented by hints of minerality and a smooth finish that reflects its pure ingredients and traditional brewing methods.
How should I serve Seikyo Takehara Junmai?
This sake can be served chilled, at room temperature, or slightly warmed, depending on your preference. Chilling brings out its crisp acidity, while warming it emphasizes the umami and rice flavors, creating a fuller experience.
What foods pair well with Seikyo Takehara Junmai?
This sake pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It complements grilled or roasted meats, rich stews, and mushroom-based dishes. Its balanced acidity also makes it an excellent match for fried foods, hearty cheeses, or even sushi and sashimi.
What is the rice polishing ratio of Seikyo Takehara Junmai?
The rice polishing ratio for Junmai sake, including Seikyo Takehara, is typically 70%, meaning 30% of the rice grain has been polished away. This contributes to its robust and earthy flavor profile.
Is Seikyo Takehara Junmai sweet or dry?
Junmai sake, including Seikyo Takehara, tends to be versatile in sweetness. It is often semi-dry, with a balance of umami and acidity rather than overt sweetness. Its dryness or sweetness may vary slightly depending on serving temperature.
How is Seikyo Takehara Junmai produced?
This sake is crafted using traditional methods. The rice is polished to expose its starchy core, then steamed and fermented with koji mold and yeast. The fermentation process creates a balanced flavor profile, and the sake is aged before being bottled.
Can I enjoy Seikyo Takehara Junmai on its own?
Yes, this sake is excellent for sipping on its own due to its clean, balanced profile. It is also versatile enough to enhance various dishes, making it a great choice for both casual and formal settings.
Does Seikyo Takehara Junmai have any special storage requirements?
To preserve its freshness, store this sake in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate it and consume within a few days to enjoy its optimal flavor.
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