Sake Type
Junmai Ginjo
Rice Type & Origin Area
Japanese Sake Rice (Niigata)
Rice-polishing Ratio
60%
Alcohol Percentage
15%
SMV (Sake Meter Value)
±0 to +3
Production Area
Niigata
Ryoko Junmai Ginjo
MINENO HAKUBAI SHUZO
This sake greets the senses with a fresh, pear-like aroma and a mellow, slightly sweet palate that flows effortlessly, making it approachable for newcomers and younger drinkers alike. Brewed with domestic rice polished to 60%, it strikes a smooth, elegant balance between gentle umami and subtle fruitiness. Its soft, rounded richness ensures a satisfying yet never overwhelming experience. Recognised for its refined character, it won the Gold Medal in the Junmai Ginjo category at the International Wine Challenge 2023. Best served slightly chilled, it pairs beautifully with white fish sashimi, grilled seafood, and lightly seasoned poultry, highlighting its fragrance and supple texture.
About the Sake brewery:
Founded around 1639 in Niigata Prefecture, this brewery is the region’s second-oldest and part of the historic “Echigo Sanbai,” the top three breweries of Echigo. Nestled at the foot of Mt. Kakuda, it draws on pure underground water filtered through black granite and schist, ideal for producing elegant, refined sake. Originally serving the Mineyama Domain’s samurai, the brewery preserves traditional craftsmanship while evolving to modern tastes, blending Niigata’s classic crisp, dry style with richer, aromatic profiles. Using premium rice such as Gohyakumangoku and selected varieties nationwide, it produces small-batch sakes, including the celebrated Ryōko series, earning multiple national and international awards.