Tanaka 65 Junmai Nama (田中六五 純米 生酒)

Shiraito Shuzo, founded in 1855 in the nature-rich city of Itoshima, Fukuoka Prefecture, is a historic brewery that stubbornly preserves 'Hanegi Shibori,' a traditional pressing method using the leverage of a giant wooden beam. Its flagship brand 'Tanaka 65' takes its name from the 'Tanaka' family field where the brewery is located and its constant 65% polishing ratio. This 'Junmai Nama' is a winter-limited masterpiece that bottles the freshness of newly pressed sake without pasteurization, crafted by milling locally and carefully grown Itoshima Yamada Nishiki to 65%. According to global enthusiasts and sommeliers, the charm of this sake begins with the gentle fruity aromas of muscat, apple, and subtle melon that rise when poured. Upon a soft sip, the texture of a "jelly-like sake," which Shiraito Shuzo ultimately strives for, softly coats the tip of the tongue. The clear umami of the rice, born from the gentle and round pressing method of Hanegi Shibori, expands beautifully in the mouth. The potentially heavy volume of the 65% polishing ratio is refreshingly embraced by an approachable 14-15% ABV and soft lactic nuances, beautifully concluding by cleansing the palate as cleanly as water. With a texture so smooth it makes you want to chew it, yet perfectly supporting the flow of a meal, it is the ultimate everyday sake and a lovely food-pairing companion.

Discover the best food pairings for Tanaka 65 Junmai Nama. This sake features fresh Muscat aromas and subtle apple and melon notes, with a smooth, jelly-like texture and the clean umami of Itoshima Yamadanishiki rice. 1. Terroir Pairing: Enjoy it with Chicken Cartilage Karaage (Nankotsu Karaage). A common dish in Japanese Izakayas, Chicken Cartilage Karaage is characterized by its salty and savory flavor. The sake's subtle sweetness and umami gently envelop the flavor of the chicken cartilage, and the sake's clean finish cuts through the richness of the fried dish. The crunchy texture of the cartilage contrasts with the sake's smooth texture, providing an even more enjoyable experience. 2. Creative Pairing: Try it with Tuna Avocado Poke. The richness of the tuna and the creaminess of the avocado create a luxurious harmony with the sake's subtle fruity aroma. The sake's refreshing acidity cuts through the richness of the tuna, and the soy sauce-based poke sauce enhances the sake's umami. The combination of fresh tuna and avocado pairs perfectly with the sake's clean finish, leaving a refreshing aftertaste.