Hiraizumi FOUR SEASONS Winter Shiboritate (飛良泉 FOUR SEASONS 冬 しぼりたて 山廃純米 生酒)

Hiraizumi Honpo, founded in 1487, is a legendary brewery boasting the oldest history in the Tohoku region and the third oldest in Japan. The 'FOUR SEASONS' series expresses Akita's four seasons through sake, inspired by the majestic nature of Mt. Chokai. Among them, this 'Winter (冬) Shiboritate' is a masterpiece that captures the clear, transparent air of winter into a freshly pressed raw sake (Nama). In particular, it breaks the traditional prejudice that the 'Yamahai' method is heavy and unapproachable, perfectly reinterpreting it into a modern, light food-pairing sake using Kyokai No. 701 yeast. According to global enthusiasts and sommeliers, the charm of this sake begins with a gentle and affectionate aroma of banana and grapefruit that modestly rises just enough not to interfere with the scent of the food. Upon taking a sip, the fresh micro-carbonation typical of 'Shiboritate' pleasantly awakens the tongue, and behind a transparent and clear umami, a distinct 1.7 to 1.8 acidity builds the solid framework of Yamahai. This refreshing acidity meshes with a clean dryness (Karakuchi) of around +3.0, delivering a thrilling finish (Kire) that cleanly washes the palate. While excellent when chilled, its outstanding balance of acidity and umami makes it a fascinating sake that can elegantly be enjoyed warmed (Atsukan) despite being unpasteurized.

Pairing suggestions for Hiraizumi Four Seasons Winter Shiboritate (飛良泉 FOUR SEASONS 冬 しぼりたて 山廃純米 生酒): 1. Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot) or Warm Oden: Warming Hiraizumi Shiboritate (Atsukan) rounds out the umami and acidity unique to Yamahai. This comforting texture perfectly seeps into the flavors of warm, light broths, affectionately melting away the chill on your palate on a cold winter day. 2. Yellowtail Radish Stew or Grilled Pork Belly: When served chilled, the distinct acidity of over 1.7 and micro-carbonation refreshingly wash away the heaviness of fatty fish or meat. The solid framework of Yamahai, which holds its ground even against rich soy sauce seasonings, maintains an excellent balance throughout the meal.