“Universal meal drink” what does that even mean? Well, let me tell you about the Kurumazaka. It is not a bridge. It is a sake. Specifically, it is the Kurumazaka Yamahai Junmai Daiginjo.
The Kurumazaka hails from Wakayama Prefecture. It is brewed by Yoshimura Hideo Shoten. The brewery was founded in 1914. They are located on the banks of the Kinokawa River. The river’s water is essential to their sake brewing.
The founder Hideo Yoshimura trained in Nada. He wanted to make sake enjoyable for everyone. He wanted his sake to bring warmth, fun and joy.
Kurumazaka uses the yamahai method. This is a traditional technique. It creates sakes with sharper flavors. It also gives more pronounced umami. The yamahai method requires more attention from the master blender.
This particular sake uses Yamada Nishiki rice. The rice is milled to 50%. It has an alcohol content of 16%. Its SMV is +2.0 and acidity is 1.7.
Kurumazaka aims to be a universal meal drink. It should pair with everything from appetizers to desserts. It has a gentle flavor. Yet, it creates harmony even with punchy dishes. The yamahai method gives it a wide range of flavor elements. This makes it great for various ingredients and seasonings.
On the nose, it offers fruity and grassy notes. There is also a touch of nuts. The palate enjoys a silky texture. Complex flavors are enhanced by a pleasant acidity.
Kurumazaka has won awards. It is a premium sake to be enjoyed chilled. It pairs well with vegetables. It also goes with vegetarian dishes and fruity desserts.
The brewery also makes other sakes. They use kimoto and yamahai starter techniques. These offer robust, full flavors. They also make aged sakes. These express a greater depth of flavor.
Yoshimura Hideo Shoten also makes plum wine. They use local Nanko plums. They also create liqueurs using fruit.
In 2024, Kurumazaka Junmai won Gold at the Luxembourg Sake Challenge. In 2023, Kurumazaka Junmai Daiginjo won Bronze at the IWC.
So next time you are looking for a universal drink you should give Kurumazaka a try. It might not be a bridge but it will take you places. Its history and flavor are sure to leave a lasting impression.