Welcome to the first installment of our new blog series, "The WASAKE Selection." In this series, we take a deep dive into the exceptional sake labels and breweries that define the experience at our Asakusa studio.

Each bottle at WASAKE Sake Experience is meticulously curated. They are hand-picked by our Owner and Sommelier, Hide, who selects each label based on its rigorous quality and the compelling story it tells. To kick off the series, we are featuring one of Hide's personal favorites: Ohyama Tomizu (Special Junmai) from Kato Kahachiro Shuzo.

The Legacy of Kato Kahachiro Shuzo (Yamagata)

Hailing from the Oyama district of Yamagata Prefecture, Kato Kahachiro Shuzo has been a pillar of the sake world since 1872.

Among their impressive portfolio, the Tomizu label stands out as a masterpiece of passion. From his professional perspective as a sommelier, Hide selected this specific bottle because it perfectly embodies the balance of historical reverence and technical mastery that we want our guests to experience during their Sake Tasting in Tokyo.

The "Tomizu" Secret: Reclaiming the Edo Spirit

The name "Tomizu" (literally "ten waters") refers to a traditional brewing ratio from the Edo period.

The Tomizu method uses a strict 10:10 ratio of rice to water, making the fermentation process extremely difficult to manage. It requires the constant, watchful eye of the brewers to prevent the fermentation from stalling. The result is a sake with an extraordinary concentration of flavor—a rich, dense umami that Hide considers a true "soulful" representation of Japanese craftsmanship.

Sensory Profile: Richness and Elegance

When you taste Ohyama Tomizu at WASAKE, you are experiencing the taste of history. Hide recommends paying attention to its evolving character:

• The Aroma: Gentle yet firm, with the nostalgic scent of high-quality steamed rice.
• The Flavor: A bold impact of sweetness and umami, followed by a remarkably crisp and refreshing finish.

Discover the Story with Hide in Asakusa

At WASAKE, we believe that knowing the "why" behind a sake makes the "taste" even more profound. Ohyama Tomizu is just the beginning of the journey we offer.

Join us for a session and let our Owner and Sommelier, Hide, guide you through the rich world of Japan’s finest brew. Stay tuned for our next installment of "The WASAKE Selection."

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