Sake is more than just a drink - it is a reflection of Japan’s history, culture, and meticulous craftsmanship. For centuries, the brewing of sake has been a revered art, requiring not only the finest rice and pristine water but also an intimate understanding of fermentation, temperature, and time. Each bottle is a conversation between nature and human skill, a harmony of flavors shaped by regional terroir and brewing philosophy.
Few embody this dedication to excellence as profoundly as Keigetsu, a distinguished brewery with a heritage spanning over 138 years. Founded in 1877, Keigetsu has remained steadfast in its pursuit of quality, meticulously handcrafting small batches of sake in Tosa-cho, a serene enclave nestled within the Tosa-Reihoku region of northern Kochi Prefecture.
The brewery is blessed with an exceptional natural environment, drawing from the pristine air and abundant soft water sourced from the nearby Sameura Lake, one of Shikoku’s most revered water sources. This tranquil setting provides not only the ideal conditions for sake brewing but also an atmosphere of quiet contemplation - a space where tradition and innovation converge to create sakes of remarkable purity and character.
Among the diverse expressions of sake, two stand out for their individuality and craftsmanship: the bright and citrus-laced Keigetsu Yuzusake and the richly textured, cloud-like Keigetsu Nigori Junmai Daiginjo. Though vastly different in profile, both are a testament to the precision and creativity that define premium Japanese sake.
Keigetsu Yuzusake: A Sunlit Orchard in a Glass
One sip of Keigetsu Yuzusake is enough to transport you to a citrus grove at the height of summer, where the air is thick with the scent of ripening yuzu and the golden light dances on rolling green hills. This sake liqueur, infused with the juice of Kochi’s famously aromatic yuzu, is a vibrant and invigorating elixir that seamlessly melds the tartness of freshly squeezed citrus with the gentle, rounded sweetness of rice-fermented sake.
The aroma is an invitation - zesty yuzu peel, delicate floral undertones, and a whisper of honeyed rice. On the palate, the initial burst of bright acidity gives way to a soft, almost velvety sweetness, striking a balance that is both refreshing and indulgent. There’s a subtle play of bitterness, akin to the pith of the fruit, which lingers just long enough to keep the experience crisp and uplifting.
Served chilled, it is the perfect companion to dishes kissed with the umami-laden tang of ponzu sauce or the satisfying crunch of tempura. Whether enjoyed as an aperitif or a citrus-infused interlude in a multi-course meal, Keigetsu Yuzusake is nothing short of a sensory escape to the sun-drenched orchards of Japan.
Keigetsu Nigori Junmai Daiginjo: A Silken Cloud with a Hidden Spark
If the Yuzusake is an ode to the bright exuberance of citrus, the Keigetsu Nigori Junmai Daiginjo is a moonlit sonata - a sake that speaks in hushed tones of indulgence, depth, and subtle complexity. Nigori, meaning “cloudy,” is a style of sake that retains some of its rice sediment, lending it a creamy texture and an opalescent appearance that shimmers like silk in the glass.
Upon pouring, the first impression is its beguiling aroma - a lush bouquet of honey-drenched pineapple, succulent mango, and lychee, underscored by a playful hint of muscat grapes and melon rind. A gentle effervescence enlivens the sake, lending it a delicate sparkle that dances across the tongue like a fleeting memory of champagne.
On the palate, it is decadently smooth, with a velvety mouthfeel reminiscent of finely whipped cream. The sweetness, though present, is kept in check by a lively acidity that refreshes rather than cloys. There is an echo of yeastiness - a whisper of fermentation that adds complexity and depth. The umami is pronounced, a rich savoriness that makes it an ideal partner for spicy dishes, bold Chinese flavors, and even an indulgent wedge of cheese.
Best served chilled or at room temperature, Keigetsu Nigori Junmai Daiginjo is a sake that invites contemplation, a drink that lingers not just on the palate, but in the mind, leaving behind a trail of fruit, silk, and softly glowing warmth.
Two Sakes, Two Stories
Keigetsu’s Yuzusake and Nigori Junmai Daiginjo are two sides of the same coin - one bright and invigorating, the other deep and luxuriant. Each bottle is a celebration of nature’s gifts and the careful hand of the brewer, crafting liquid poetry that resonates with both casual drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs alike. Whether seeking refreshment or indulgence, vibrancy or depth, these sakes promise a journey of flavor worth savoring.
Exclusive in Australia via JQWS
For those in Australia looking to experience these exceptional expressions, both Keigetsu Yuzusake and Keigetsu Nigori Junmai Daiginjo are available exclusively through JQWS (https://jqws.com.au/).
JQWS is not just a distributor - it is a curator of Japan’s finest sake, whisky, and artisanal spirits. With an uncompromising dedication to quality and authenticity, JQWS seeks out rare and exceptional bottles that tell a story, bringing Australia an unparalleled selection of handcrafted Japanese beverages. Their deep connections with Japan’s most esteemed producers ensure that every bottle represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and tradition.
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Words by AW.
Photos courtesy of JQWS.