Nito Zodiac Bottle 2026 Horse & Rabbit Junmai Ginjo Nama Genshu (二兎 干支ボトル 午年 2026 純米吟醸 しぼりたて生原酒)

Nito Zodiac Bottle 2026 Horse and Rabbit is a special limited New Year's release by Maruishi Jozo in Okazaki, Aichi Prefecture, commemorating the 2026 Year of the Horse. Combining 'Banzai', a revived 100-year-old rare local rice, with 'Yamada Nishiki', it is polished down to 55% and bottled directly as a 'Shiboritate Nama Genshu' (freshly pressed, unpasteurized, undiluted sake), physically locking in the absolute freshness of the immediate press. The structural core of this sake lies in the micro-carbonation typical of a Nama Genshu and its dramatic, three-stage physical transition from 'sweetness to acidity to dryness'. When poured, fresh ester aromatics of white peach and melon are released alongside the faint sweet scent of grain. Upon tasting, fine bubbles stimulate the tongue for the initial attack, immediately followed by the heavy spread of dense umami and distinct sweetness derived from the dual rice blend. However, beyond the mid-palate, a clear acidity establishes the framework, and in the latter half, the 15% ABV alcoholic tension of the Genshu sharply severs the residual sugar, completing an extreme Karakuchi finish that exits the palate as swiftly and refreshingly as a galloping horse.

Nito Horse & Rabbit 2026 is a Junmai Ginjo distinguished by its delicate sweetness, acidity, and fresh rice flavor. To highlight these characteristics, I recommend the following pairings: 1. Terroir Pairing: 'Mackerel Sushi (Saba Sushi)' - The subtle sweetness and rice-derived flavors of Nito pair well with the oily flavor of mackerel, while the sake's acidity cuts through the fishiness. The fresh steamed grain aroma enhances the flavor profile of the saba sushi. 2. Creative Pairing: 'Mozzarella Cheese with Tomato and Basil Salad' - The fruity aromas in Nito, like peach and melon, harmonize well with the fresh tomato and basil. The sake's gentle carbonation complements the creamy texture of the mozzarella, and the rice flavor balances the overall taste.