Abe THE SAZANAMI (あべ THE SAZANAMI おりがらみ生原酒)

Abe Shuzo, founded in 1804, is a historic brewery that has been transformed under the leadership of its 6th generation head, Yuta Abe, into a place that brews the most modern and innovative sake in Niigata Prefecture. They do not forcefully manipulate the recipe to make the sake taste exactly the same every year. In a brewing year where the harvested rice "melts easily," yielding a rich umami, it is released as 'THE SAZANAMI' (gentle ripples). Conversely, in a year where the rice does not melt easily, resulting in a sharp taste, it is released as 'ARANAMI' (rough waves). As the first new sake (Shinshu) to kick off Abe Shuzo's brewing year, this masterpiece honestly and affectionately showcases the natural characteristics of that year's rice. ​Looking at the tasting notes of global enthusiasts, the charm of this sake is often described in one phrase: "an elegant melon cream soda for adults." When poured, along with the pale milky color created by the light lees (Origarami), aromas of melon, white grape, and refreshing lemon rise up. Upon taking a sip, the fine micro-carbonation created by the living yeast thrills the tongue, filling the mouth with the juicy sweetness of rice and a yogurt-like smoothness. Following this, Abe Shuzo's signature popping citrus acidity intervenes to cleanly wash away the sweetness. Thanks to its low alcohol content of 13%, it possesses an overwhelming crispness and vitality that you can gulp down almost like a sports drink—an absolutely lovely sake.

Abe THE SAZANAMI Origarami Nama Genshu's melon cream soda, white grape aroma, and fresh citrus acidity create excellent harmony with various foods. 1. Terroir Pairing: 'Tottori Crab Gratin' pairs harmoniously with the sake's creamy texture and juicy rice sweetness, complementing the gratin's creamy texture and subtle sweetness. The rich umami of the crab gently envelops the sake's fresh citrus acidity, offering a deeper flavor experience. 2. Creative Pairing: 'Sous Vide Chicken Breast with Lemon Butter Sauce' enhances the sake's melon cream soda and fresh lemon aromas. The acidity and rich butter aroma of the lemon butter sauce balance the sake's creamy texture, and the chicken breast's delicate flavor highlights the sake's clean and refreshing finish.