Houou-biden Black Phoenix Junmai Ginjo (鳳凰美田 Black Phoenix 純米吟醸)

Kobayashi Shuzo, founded in 1872 in Oyama, Tochigi Prefecture, is a brewery that has gained nationwide fame with its outstanding brand, 'Houou-biden.' This 'Black Phoenix' is a Junmai Ginjo brewed by milling 'Aiyama'—often called a 'phantom rice' due to the difficulty of both its cultivation and brewing—down to 55%. Despite its intense and weighty name, the moment it is poured into a glass, Houou-biden's signature bright magic unfolds, showing off its elegant and juicy charm to the fullest. According to global enthusiasts and sommeliers, the charm of this sake begins with an overwhelmingly gorgeous aroma that fills the space, reminiscent of muscat, pineapple, and a colorful fruit punch. Upon taking a soft sip, the plump and juicy umami and pleasant sweetness unique to Aiyama rice elegantly expand in the mouth. The potentially cloying sweetness is beautifully embraced by a gentle and refreshing 1.6 acidity, cleanly scattering the lingering finish along a neat ±0 SMV. It is an absolutely lovely sake that condenses the aesthetics of Houou-biden, even evoking the enchanting illusion of drinking freshly squeezed, premium fruit juice.

Considering the Hoobiden Black Phoenix Junmai Ginjo's vibrant Ginjo aroma, juicy sweetness, and clean finish, I recommend the following pairings: 1. Fatty Tuna (Otoro) Sashimi or Yellowtail Carpaccio: The glamorous sweetness unique to Aiyama rice and the gorgeous fruity aroma of Houou-biden create a fantastic harmony with the rich fat of red meat fish or yellowtail. The 1.6 acidity affectionately washes away the oiliness in the mouth, making you crave the next bite. 2. Fresh Prosciutto Melon or Fig Cream Cheese Salad: The overwhelming muscat and pineapple aromas of Black Phoenix act like an excellent dessert wine in themselves. It perfectly blends with the acidity of fruit, the saltiness of prosciutto, and the soft texture of cheese, elegantly decorating the dining table.