The days are getting warmer, and there’s just something uplifting about this season, isn’t there? Walking around town, you’re enveloped in the gentle scent of cherry blossoms… I find myself instinctively drawn to lovely pink things 🌸
The other day, after visiting COEDO BREWERY THE RESTAURANT in Kawagoe, I casually stopped by a nearby liquor store called “Sakeya Matsuzaki.” And there, it was love at first sight! ✨ That’s how I found the sake I want to introduce today.
Eikofuji Aiyama Junmai Daiginjo Muroka -EXOTIC HEAVEN LOVE MOUNTAIN-
Just look at this name! ✨ “EXOTIC HEAVEN LOVE MOUNTAIN”… Doesn’t it sound grand and a little mysterious? Eikofuji’s sakes always have such thoughtful names, which is another reason I’m drawn to them.
Actually, Eikofuji is one of my absolute favorite brands. I hadn’t had any for a little while, but when I saw this spring-like pink label, I just thought, “I have to drink this!” Because honestly, a cute bottle just brightens your mood, right? 💕 Makes you want to share it on social media!
Many of Eikofuji’s sakes have fruity, gorgeous aromas and a gentle palate, making them easy to recommend even for sake beginners. They release new sakes seasonally, or perhaps even more often, almost monthly? Their creativity in keeping us fans excited is truly amazing.
Since we’re here, let me tell you a bit about “Fuji Shuzo,” the wonderful brewery that crafts this lovely sake.
Who is Fuji Shuzo, the Esteemed Brewery from Yamagata?
“Eikofuji” (栄光冨士) – if you enjoy sake, you’ve likely heard the name, right? Its brilliant, fruity flavor captivates so many people!
The brewery behind Eikofuji is Fuji Shuzo Co., Ltd., located in Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture.
A Long-Standing Brewery with Over 240 Years of History, Since the Edo Period!
It’s quite astonishing, but Fuji Shuzo was founded way back in 1778 (the 7th year of the An’ei era)! They’ve been brewing sake in this location for over 240 years, since the Edo period. That’s incredible history! Located in the Oyama district of Tsuruoka City, historically prosperous as a port town and castle town, they uphold traditional brewing techniques while continuously embracing new challenges. A truly wonderful brewery.
What Makes the “Eikofuji” Brand So Appealing?
When you think of Fuji Shuzo, you think of “Eikofuji.” The brand’s signature appeal lies in its “gorgeous aroma” and “juicy umami,” reminiscent of biting into fresh fruit!
Furthermore, a key characteristic is that many of their sakes are shipped as “Muroka Nama Genshu” (無濾過生原酒) to maximize these attractive qualities.
“Muroka Nama Genshu” might sound a bit technical, but simply put, it refers to sake that skips some or all of the typical post-press processes: “Muroka” (no charcoal filtration), “Nama” (unpasteurized), and “Genshu” (undiluted, no water added). This means you get to directly enjoy the fresh-pressed vibrancy, the rice’s inherent rich umami and sweetness, and a powerful, full-bodied flavor! ♪
Eikofuji leverages the qualities of Muroka Nama Genshu to create highly aromatic sakes with an exquisite balance of sweetness and umami, offering a satisfying depth. It’s no wonder their popularity has been soaring recently. I’m completely hooked myself (lol).
Another can’t-miss point is the frequent release of limited-edition sakes using various sake rice types and yeasts throughout the seasons! ✨ They show a different side each time, making you eager to try every new release. Many also feature stylish label designs, making them perfect gifts for someone special, don’t you think? 🎁
Finally, the Tasting! “Eikofuji Aiyama Junmai Daiginjo Muroka”
Alright, thank you for waiting! It’s finally time to taste this “EXOTIC HEAVEN LOVE MOUNTAIN” 🙏
Pouring it into the glass releases a brilliant, gorgeous ginjo aroma that wafts up softly. You can also sense the youthful freshness characteristic of nama (unpasteurized) sake, building anticipation…!
Taking a sip… Wow…! 💕 A rich, melting sweetness and umami, characteristic of “Aiyama” rice (sometimes called the ‘diamond of sake rice’), gently fills the mouth…! How luxurious.
But it’s not just sweet; the finish is surprisingly clean. After swallowing, a lingering floral aroma softly tickles the nose… leaving you feeling wonderfully happy 😌
It’s an enchanting deliciousness that truly lives up to the name “EXOTIC HEAVEN.”
For those who love fruity, sweet sake, or those curious to try a sake made with the somewhat rare “Aiyama” rice, this is an absolute must-try! Enjoying it on a warm spring day, perhaps feeling like you’re at a cherry blossom viewing party, would be lovely too 🌸
I hope discovering wonderful sake like this brightens your days, even just a little.
See you next time on Sake Days! This was Ai 😊
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