Kikusui Junmai Daiginjo Genshu Sakamai Kikusui (菊水 純米大吟醸原酒 酒米菊水)

This masterpiece from Kikusui Sake Brewery embraces one of the most beautiful and moving stories in sake history. The rice variety 'Kikusui' was a magnificent sake-brewing rice—the ancestor of Gohyakumangoku, the backbone of Niigata sake—but due to cultivation difficulties, it disappeared and became completely extinct. However, the brewery, sharing the same name as this legendary rice, received a mere '25 grains' of seeds left in an agricultural research institute. After years of persistent cultivation, they finally succeeded in miraculously reviving it. According to global sommeliers and enthusiasts, the true value of this sake lies in the perfect coexistence of "the infinitely transparent elegance of a Junmai Daiginjo" and "the grand power exuded by an undiluted Genshu." When poured, the elegant aromas of ripe red apple and white peach fill the space. Upon taking a sip, the dense and heavy texture unique to a 17% ABV undiluted Genshu heavily coats the tongue, but soon, the clear and deep umami of the Kikusui rice polished down to 40% pleasantly blooms. The clean finish created by the +3.0 SMV and 1.3 acidity transparently washes away the weight of the 17% ABV, leaving only an intense yet elegant lingering finish that echoes endlessly after swallowing—a sublime masterpiece.

Kikusui Junmai Daiginjo Genshu Sakamai Kikusui has a luxurious sweetness and rich umami, making it a versatile pairing option. 1. Fatty Tuna (Otoro) Sashimi or Uni with Caviar: The powerful body of a 17% ABV undiluted Genshu, unlike typical delicate Daiginjos, never loses to the rich and creamy flavors of premium seafood. The deep umami of Kikusui rice creates a fantastic harmony with the dense fat of tuna or the creamy texture of uni, delivering the pinnacle of the palate. 2. Foie Gras Terrine: The full-bodied genshu texture and the creamy richness of foie gras create a luxurious pairing. The sake's deep umami enhances the flavor of the foie gras, and the subtle white flower aroma balances the richness.