Jozen Mizuno Gotoshi Junmai Ginjo (上善如水 純米吟醸)

Shirataki Sake Brewery, founded in 1855, is a prestigious brewery located in Echigo Yuzawa, Niigata Prefecture, an area famous for heavy snowfall. Their absolute flagship, 'Jozen Mizuno Gotoshi,' takes its name from a phrase in Laozi's Tao Te Ching meaning "the highest goodness is like water." True to this philosophy, using clear snowmelt water drawn from deep underground in Echigo Yuzawa, they have perfected a transparent profile that completely removes the heavy and strong alcoholic sensation typical of some sake. Since its release in 1990, its unique cleanliness has made it the eternal global bestseller for sake beginners far beyond Japan. According to global enthusiasts and sommeliers, the charm of this sake lies in its "ultimate clarity and cleanliness" that requires no complex deconstruction. When poured, a modest ginjo aroma of fresh green apple, faint melon, and white flowers gently rises. Upon taking a sip, an extremely smooth and light texture, as if drinking clear spring water from the mountains, coats the tongue, and the unobtrusive, soft umami of the rice lightly passes by. The dryness (Karakuchi) of +4 to +5 and a low acidity of 1.3 leave absolutely no stickiness or heaviness in the mouth, washing the palate as cleanly as water. It is an infinitely affectionate and transparent sake that even those who are intimidated by the strong aromas or alcoholic bite of sake can comfortably enjoy when served thoroughly chilled.

Here are two pairings to complement the clear and clean flavors of Jozen Mizuno Gotoshi Junmai Ginjo. 1. Japanese Clear Soup (Suimono): Highlighting the clean and delicate nature of the Junmai Ginjo, the subtle sweetness and clear broth of Suimono create an excellent harmony. The sake's refreshing quality and the soup's mildness blend in the mouth, offering a clean finish. 2. Shrimp, Asparagus with Lemon Butter Sauce: The umami of shrimp and the freshness of asparagus complement the refreshing green apple aroma and subtle sweetness of Jozen Mizuno Gotoshi Junmai Ginjo. The lemon butter sauce's tanginess enhances the sake's dry finish, providing a rich and balanced flavor experience.