Otokoyama Junmai Daiginjo (男山 純米大吟醸)

Located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, Otokoyama is a prestigious brewery that crafts cool and clean sake utilizing the severe cold that drops below -20 degrees Celsius and the clear subsoil water of the Daisetsuzan mountain range. Their top flagship, 'Otokoyama Junmai Daiginjo,' is a historical monument that spearheaded the globalization of sake, becoming the first Japanese sake to win a Gold Medal at the Monde Selection in 1977 during the early days of sake's expansion into the world market. They pursued ultimate refinement by polishing premium Yamada Nishiki down to 38%. ​According to the evaluations of global sommeliers and enthusiasts, the true value of this sake lies in its "classic elegance that remains unshaken by trends." When poured, rather than an explosion of aroma like trendy modern sakes, the graceful scents of subtle white plum, green apple, faint pineapple, and white chocolate quietly fill the space. Upon taking a sip, a velvety and smooth texture wraps the tongue, making the strong name 'Man's Mountain' seem almost ironic. Soon, the clean dryness of +1.0 to +5.0 and the gentle 1.3 acidity combine to coolly and clearly wash the palate like Hokkaido's snowmelt water, showing a perfect balance that fades away faintly.

Otoko Yama Junmai Daiginjo, with its delicate and clean flavor profile, pairs excellently with the following dishes: 1. Hokkaido Hairy Crab (Kegani): The sake's clean mineral notes and subtle sweetness perfectly complement the delicate sweetness of hairy crab. The sake provides a clean finish without overpowering the crab's flavor, enhancing the overall Hokkaido experience. 2. White Fish Sashimi (Sea Bream, Flounder): The sake's subtle white plum and green apple aromas gently embrace the delicate flavors of fresh white fish, while the sake's clean, dry character cuts through any fishiness. Texturally, the smoothness of the sashimi and the silky texture of the Junmai Daiginjo blend harmoniously.