Kaiun Hiyazume Junmai Lucky Cat Label (開運 ひやづめ 純米 ピンクのまねきねこ)

Kaiun is the flagship brand of Doi Shuzojo, located in Kakegawa, Shizuoka Prefecture. True to its uplifting name, it is a prestigious sake that never fails to grace celebratory occasions. This Pink Manekineko Label is a limited package that adds a cute illustration of a lucky beckoning cat to Kaiun's affectionately lyrical profile. The liquid inside is Kaiun Hiyazume Junmai, brewed by milling Hyogo-grown Yamada Nishiki down to 55%. It employs the Hiyazume method, where the sake is pasteurized and then rapidly cooled using special equipment. Thanks to this, even though it has undergone heat treatment, it perfectly retains the fresh, popping vibrancy of a newly pressed, unpasteurized sake. ​According to global enthusiasts and sommeliers, the charm of this sake begins with the gorgeous aromas of fresh melon and faint pear that delightfully rise from the glass. Upon a soft sip, moving past the clear and clean texture crafted by Shizuoka Yeast, the elegant and round umami inherent to Yamada Nishiki rice affectionately blooms in the mouth. The +3.0 SMV and 1.5 acidity create a wonderful harmony, refreshingly embracing the texture so it never feels flat, and delivering a clean, neat swallow. Leaving a bright fruity lingering finish while gently cleansing the palate, it is a lovely sake that allows you to smile and drink comfortably from the beginning to the end of a meal.

Kaiun Hiyazume Junmai Pink Manekineko Label is a sake with a gentle sweetness and a clean finish. Here are two recommended pairings: 1. Assorted White Fish Sashimi: White fish like sea bream (domi) or flounder pairs well with the sake's subtle melon and pear aromas. The sake's crisp acidity cuts through any richness of the fish, cleansing the palate. The soft sweetness from the Yamada Nishiki rice complements the sashimi's freshness. 2. Yuzu Salad: The tangy yuzu dressing balances the sake's delicate sweetness, while the salad's freshness complements the sake's clean finish, stimulating the appetite. The sake's subtle white flower aroma harmonizes with the salad's fresh vegetable fragrance, creating a richer flavor profile.