Shichisui Junmai 60 Gohyakumangoku (七水 純米60 五百万石)

Shichisui Junmai 60 Gohyakumangoku is a paradigm of a modern food pairing sake brewed using the pristine water from the Rainbow Well, one of the seven famous waters of Utsunomiya. Despite utilizing Gohyakumangoku rice which is typically known to produce a clean and light flavor profile, this product extracts a distinct sweetness reaching minus 5 and a firm acidity of 1.8, presenting an initial impression reminiscent of juicy fruit nectar. Bringing the glass to the nose reveals clear transparent citrus aromatics elegantly rising alongside sweet grape notes. Upon tasting, the substantial umami of the rice gently coats the tongue alongside a pleasant acidity, unfolding an explosive flavor progression. However, the true value of this sake lies in its sharp crispness after swallowing. The fruity sweetness that started so flamboyantly meets the inherently dry characteristics of Gohyakumangoku in the latter half, remarkably and refreshingly cleansing the palate. This is a highly engineered brewing achievement where three senses sweetness, acidity, and a crisp finish operate like precise gears dramatically expanding the boundaries of gastronomy.

Pairings that consider the subtle citrus, umami, and clean finish of Shichisui Junmai 60 Gohyakumangoku. 1. Pork Belly or Charcoal-Grilled Chicken with Yuzu Kosho: The elegant citrus aromatics and firm acidity of the sake create a mirroring effect with the zesty and spicy profile of the Yuzu Kosho, while its juicy sweetness perfectly embraces the richness of the meat fat, crisply cutting through any lingering oiliness. 2. Amberjack (Kanpachi) Tataki with Ponzu Sauce: The rich, fatty flavor of the amberjack is balanced by the refreshing acidity and clean finish of the Shichisui Junmai. The citrus notes of the ponzu sauce complement the sake's citrus nuances, further enhancing the flavor, while the subtle umami deepens the amberjack's flavor.