Alcohol: 8%
Rice: Miyama Nishiki
Location: Saku City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Classification: Sparkling Junmai Sake
Tasting Notes: Delicately cloudy with a pale, luminous appearance and a lively stream of fine, refreshing bubbles, this delightful sparkling Junmai sake opens with enticing aromas of fragrant yuzu, fresh white grapefruit, ripe peach, and delicate hints of creamy yogurt. On the palate, it is light, vibrant, and wonderfully expressive, revealing layers of juicy citrus, ripe orchard fruits, and subtle tropical sweetness. A soft, creamy texture and gentle rice-derived umami add richness and complexity, while bright, tangy acidity provides beautiful balance. The lively effervescence enhances its refreshing character, leading to a crisp, clean finish with lingering notes of citrus and delicate fruit. An irresistibly charming sparkling sake that combines elegance, freshness, and just the right touch of sweetness.
Notes: Crafted from locally grown Miyama Nishiki sake rice, polished to 70% of its original size, this distinctive sparkling Junmai showcases the exceptional brewing traditions of Japan's Nagano Prefecture. Kitsukura Brewery uses traditional Nagano Kyokai #901 yeast and remarkably soft mountain spring water to create a sake of purity and finesse. Unlike sparkling beverages produced through artificial carbonation, Tamayura develops its delicate bubbles naturally through fermentation, creating an elegant effervescence reminiscent of Champagne. Fine sake lees contribute a subtle creamy richness and savory umami character, beautifully complementing its vibrant citrus acidity. With a sake meter value of -20, this sake offers an appealing balance of gentle sweetness and refreshing acidity. At just 8% alcohol, it is wonderfully approachable and versatile. Best served well chilled in a Champagne flute or coupe glass, with an optional twist of lemon to enhance its citrus aromas.
Food Pairing: An exceptional companion to freshly shucked oysters, chilled crab, shrimp cocktail, seared scallops, sushi, and delicate white fish preparations. Its refreshing bubbles and lively acidity also pair beautifully with prosciutto-wrapped melon, savory crêpes, bruschetta, and light appetizers. For cheese lovers, enjoy with fresh goat cheese, Brie, Camembert, ricotta, or other mild, creamy cheeses. Its delicate sweetness makes it equally delightful alongside lemon ricotta cake, fresh berries, fruit tarts, and lightly sweet desserts. A charming choice for celebrations, brunch, aperitifs, or simply enjoying a refreshing glass of sparkling sake.
Winery Story: Kitsukura Brewery is a historic sake producer located in Saku City, Nagano Prefecture, a beautiful mountainous region of central Japan renowned for its pristine spring water, cool climate, and exceptional rice-growing conditions. The brewery draws upon generations of Japanese sake-making tradition, combining time-honored craftsmanship with innovative brewing techniques. Nagano's high-altitude environment and remarkably soft mountain water provide ideal conditions for producing elegant, refined sake with exceptional clarity and freshness. Kitsukura places particular emphasis on locally grown Miyama Nishiki rice, a prized sake-brewing variety that contributes richness, complexity, and a distinctive grain character. Tamayura, meaning "Rhythmic Droplets," represents the brewery's creative approach to traditional sake, transforming the natural fermentation process into a lively, beautifully balanced sparkling expression. Combining delicate bubbles, refreshing citrus notes, and gentle rice-derived richness, this distinctive sake offers an exciting bridge between the worlds of Japanese sake and sparkling wine.
