Shirakawago Junmai Nigorizake: A Cloudy Treasure, Perfect for Every Season

✨ Celebrate Nigorizake Day on February 5th ✨

Miwa Shuzo a legendary brewery in Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture, proudly declares February 5th as "Nigorizake Day"! Recognized by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2022, this special day is dedicated to spreading the joy of nigorizake (cloudy sake)—a unique and flavorful style of sake that embodies the richness of Japanese brewing traditions.

With over 90% of its production dedicated to nigorizake, Miwa Shuzo stands as a beacon for this vibrant category of sake. Guided by the motto, "Though the sake is cloudy, our intentions are crystal clear," CEO Kenji Miwa—known as the "Nigorist"—and the growing community of "Nigorers" are introducing the world to the beauty of this one-of-a-kind beverage.

What Is Nigorizake?

Nigorizake is Japanese sake with a creamy, cloudy appearance that sets it apart from clear sakes. Its defining features include:
🌾 Rich Texture and Flavor – Made by lightly straining fermented mash (moromi) through coarse cloth or a sieve, leaving behind rice lees (ori).
🍶 Natural Ingredients – Includes yeast and fine particles of rice koji, creating a creamy texture and robust flavor.
🍸 A Sparkling Surprise – Some varieties feature live yeast, delivering a gentle fizz that tickles the palate.
🌸 Signature Umami and Sweetness – The lees bring out the natural aroma, sweetness, and umami of rice, making it an unforgettable treat.

Nigorizake is traditionally seen as a winter beverage, but Miwa Shuzo is redefining it as a sake to be enjoyed in every season. By designating February 5th (a wordplay on ni = 2, go = 5), they aim to introduce its delights to spring, summer, and beyond.

Shirakawago Junmai Nigorizake: The Jewel of Nigorizake

Inspired by the doburoku traditions of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawago Junmai Nigorizake is a premium cloudy sake that delivers an unparalleled experience:
🌟 Double the Luxury – Uses twice the amount of sake rice as a standard first-class sake.
🌟 Thick and Velvety – Brewed with the doburoku method, the moromi is left intact, creating an exceptionally rich, cloudy texture.
🌟 Pure Craftsmanship – Combines the boldness of tradition with the precision of modern brewing, ensuring consistent quality year-round.

Tasting Recommendations

For the ultimate experience, try it:
🍶 Chilled to 10°C – Highlight its natural sweetness and depth.
❄️ On the Rocks – A refreshing choice for hot summer days.
🍖 Paired with Rich Dishes – Complements grilled meats like yakiniku, yakitori, or eel, as well as pickles and other bold-flavored dishes.