Kikusui Junmai Ginjo Sake
With its fresh, breezy blue bottle, light flavour and medium body, Kikusui Junmai Ginjo Sake is delicious on a hot, summer afternoon.
Kikusui Junmai Ginjo sake has no additional alcohol, and the rice is polished to 55%. Although it is not the most refined Japanese sake, it is ideal for sake beginners due to its delicate flavour at an affordable price. In fact, this organic sake was awarded a gold standard at the TEXSOM International Wine Awards in 2017 due to its quality.
The Kikusui Brewery
The Niigata based sake brewery takes its name from ‘Kiku’ (菊) meaning ‘chrysanthemum’, and the ‘Sui’ (水) character for water.
This rather romantic brand name originates from a Noh play. ‘Kikujido’ features a story of a banished court page who lived to be 700 years old after learning the secret to eternal youth: the dew from the chrysanthemum flower.
Note: Drinking Kikusui sake may not result in eternal youth. But there’s no harm in trying!
The brewery has faced its fair share of trials, including shortages after the war, the Niigata Earthquake in 1964 and the following Kaetsu Flood of 1966 and 1967. But despite these adversities, the Kikusui Brewery has remained dedicated to providing affordable, quality sakes around the world.
What’s the best way to drink Kikusui Junmai Ginjo Sake?
Kikusui Junmai Ginjo Sake is best served chilled, but is also aromatic and delectable at room temperature or on the rocks.
Where can I buy Kikusui Junmai Ginjo Sake?
I have located these beautiful blue bottles in scattered Japanese restaurants, mostly in London. However, you can also order online in the UK from the following websites:
Tasting notes:
Appearance: Colourless
Length: Medium
Body: Medium
Aroma (chilled): Quite fragrant for a ginjo sake, with notes of melon, banana and a little lavender and yoghurt.
Taste (chilled): Medium – dry flavours of cucumber, apple, and a very slight hint of a shiitake umami after-taste.
Pairing: Kikusui Junmai Ginjo will draw out the flavours of most cuisines. It makes an excellent alternative to a crisp white wine and is perfect for cutting through rich chicken and pork dishes or accompanying after dinner creamy cheeses.
Want to learn more about Japanese sake? Read more of my Japanese sake reviews here or follow me on Instagram to keep up to date with all my Japanese whisky and sake news.
