〆張鶴 吟撰

【Shimeharitsuru Ginsen】
Aug / Sept 2026

Known for its tanrei umakuchi style, Shimeharitsuru balances a light, clean palate with satisfying rice umami. Bringing together Niigata’s water, quality rice and skilled brewing, it appeals to drinkers who appreciate understated finesse without sacrificing depth. The brewery is based in Murakami, a city in northernmost Niigata renowned for its salmon traditions. Its expertise in Ginjo brewing and award-winning releases have helped establish its reputation. From the late 1960s into the 1970s, Shimeharitsuru played a pioneering role in bringing Ginjo and Junmai sake to a wider audience.

Ginsen is a Ginjo sake made with rice polished to 50% and bottled at 16% ABV. Its appeal lies not in powerful aromas or pronounced sweetness, but in delicate ginjo fragrance, a clear palate and a flowing finish—a balanced style that sits naturally alongside food.

Elegant, understated aromas lead into a silky entry. Subtle sweetness and rice umami blend naturally through a clear mid-palate with just enough depth. The finish is smooth and precise, without lingering aromatic weight or sweetness. Refined and easy to return to, it suits both everyday meals and thoughtfully prepared, delicately seasoned dishes.

Serving temperature
Suggested lightly chilled at approximately 10–15°C
then allowed to warm slightly in the glass

Occasion
Japanese meals at home · Sushi and seafood gatherings · Drinkers who enjoy refined aromas and a smooth palate · Exploring Niigata sake · Food pairing with flavour but little weight

Food Pairing
Sea bream sashimi · Scallop sushi · Salt-grilled white fish · Prawn tempura · Chawanmushi · Salt-grilled chicken thigh

【Brewery】Miyao Shuzo
【Sake Classification】Ginjo
【Volume】720ml
【Rice】Not disclosed
【Rice Polishing Ratio】50%
【ABV】~16%