Hakubanishiki Junmai Ginjō

Hakubanishiki Junmai Ginjō (白馬錦 純米吟醸) is made of Miyamanishiki rice grown in Nagano and milled to 59%. It exhibits a refined character, boasting a crystalline sweetness reminiscent of melted snow from the Northern Alps. This delicate yet refreshing profile, marked by a subtle interplay of acidity, epitomises the essence of Hakuba Nishiki. Upon entering the palate, a graceful ginjō aroma unfolds, followed by a gentle, elegant sweetness of rice. The sake possesses a remarkably smooth texture and a balanced alcohol content, rendering it exceptionally approachable. Savour it chilled in a wine glass or gently warmed in a wide-mouthed sake cup for optimal enjoyment.

This sake was bottled for Châteraisé (シャトレーゼ), a Yamanashi-based manufacturer of confectionary, cakes, cream puffs, and bread. Châteraisé's news page gives insights into the rice and the production of Hakubanishiki's sake (in Japanese).

Established in 1906, Hakuba Nishiki Sake Brewery in Omachi at the foot of the Northern Alps honours its heritage through the namesake bestowed by its second-generation brewer, Usui Yoshisuke (薄井芳介), after the majestic Hakuba Sanzan peaks. At an elevation exceeding 700 metres, the brewery leverages the pristine waters of the Northern Alps and locally contracted Shinano Omachi rice to craft its exceptional sake, from daiginjō to everyday varieties.

Committed to preserving the cherished satoyama landscape of their region, the brewery has embraced a philosophy of local production and consumption since 1990. This dedication has seen them exclusively utilize locally contracted Shinano Omachi rice for their sake brewing since 2017, ensuring a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment and the local farming community.