Elegance but powerful, here you’ll notice a gentle aroma of steamed rice, soft pear, and a hint of almond. On the palate, it’s smooth and rounded, with that signature Junmai richness. Expect mellow notes of cooked grain, chestnut, and a whisper of umami, balanced by a soft acidity that keeps things fresh, not flabby. It finishes clean and dry, with just enough texture to keep you coming back for more.

Tucked away in the picturesque Aizu region of Fukushima, Yamatogawa Shuzo is a family-run brewery with deep roots—dating all the way back to 1790! Now helmed by the 8th generation of the Sato family, this historic kura (brewery) blends centuries-old tradition with a modern mindset. Surrounded by pristine mountain water and lush rice fields, Yamatogawa prides itself on crafting sake that’s not just delicious, but deeply connected to its terroir. They even grow their own sake rice, just a few kilometres from the brewery, keeping everything beautifully local and sustainable. Famous for its clean, balanced styles, Yamatogawa focuses on letting the natural character of their ingredients shine through. Their sake often leans smooth and umami-rich—perfect for pairing with food (yes, even pizza and cheese boards, trust us). And while they're steeped in tradition, this brewery isn’t afraid to experiment and keep things fresh. Think of them as the cool, quietly confident elder of the sake world.