Ring in the New Year with Fresh Flavors: Discover the Versatility of Eikun 70 Junmai Sake

New Year, New Sake

As the calendar flips to a new year, sake aficionados know there’s no better time to explore the freshest brews of the season. In Japan, the arrival of winter signals the release of "shinshu"—a special category of sake made from the newly harvested rice. Brewed between November and March, these seasonal sakes are eagerly awaited by enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. They offer a unique taste of the year's harvest and the perfect way to toast the future.

s

Sugitama – A Symbol of Fresh Sake

When visiting a sake brewery in Japan, one might spot a distinctive symbol at the entrance: the sugitama. This ball of freshly harvested cedar leaves is an ancient sign that fresh sake has just been brewed. A bright green sugitama signifies that the sake is young and fresh, while as the leaves turn brown, it marks the aging process. It’s a beautiful reminder of the deep connection between sake and the changing seasons—something to look forward to as we celebrate the turn of the year.

While You Wait for Shinshu, Discover the Versatility of Eikun 70 Junmai

As you await the arrival of this year’s shinshu, why not indulge in a sake that’s perfect for year-round enjoyment? Enter Eikun 70 Junmai, crafted by Saito Shuzo, located in the renowned Fushimi sake district of Kyoto. With an unbroken record of winning the gold medal for 14 consecutive years at Japan’s National New Sake Competition, Eikun is known for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

Eikun 70 Junmai is the epitome of versatility. Designed to complement a wide array of dishes, this sake has a light, clear, and crisp profile that won't overwhelm your palate. It’s the perfect "during-meal" sake, making it ideal for both casual dining and special occasions. What's more, it offers different qualities depending on how it’s served.

Cold or Warm, Eikun 70 Junmai Delivers

When served cold, Eikun 70 Junmai has a refreshing mild dryness and crispness that pairs beautifully with delicate seafood or fresh salads. On the other hand, when warmed, the sake reveals deeper rice flavors, creating a rich and comforting experience that’s perfect for cozy meals in colder months.