Alcohol: 16.5%
Rice: Ginginga
Location: Shiwa, Iwate Prefecture, Japan
Classification: Daiginjo Sake
Tasting Notes: Elegant and beautifully aromatic, this exceptional Daiginjo sake opens with enticing aromas of ripe honeydew melon, juicy peach, fresh strawberries, and delicate floral notes, complemented by subtle hints of anise and fresh bamboo. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, silky, and remarkably smooth, revealing layers of ripe orchard fruits, luscious melon, and delicate tropical sweetness. A beautifully rounded texture creates an inviting richness, while gentle acidity and subtle savory undertones provide balance and complexity. The sake gradually develops a refreshing, distinctly dry character, leading to a clean, precise, and elegant finish. A sophisticated expression of Japanese sake that combines aromatic richness, refined texture, and exceptional harmony.
Notes: Crafted from locally grown Ginginga sake rice, polished to 50% of its original size, this distinguished Daiginjo reflects the exceptional brewing traditions of Iwate Prefecture. Tsukinowa Brewery uses the distinctive Giovanni no Shirabe yeast and remarkably soft mountain spring water derived from melting snow to create its elegant aromatic profile. A small amount of alcohol distilled in-house from rice is added during production, enhancing the sake's fragrance while creating a softer, more refined texture. With a sake meter value of +5, Midnight Moon offers a harmonious combination of delicate fruit richness and a crisp, dry finish. The brewery follows the Japanese philosophy of "Kakushi-Aji," or hidden flavors, in which individual elements blend seamlessly rather than allowing any single flavor to dominate. Best served chilled, between 41°F and 50°F (5°C–10°C), to fully appreciate its delicate aromas and beautifully balanced character.
Food Pairing: An exceptional companion to sushi, sashimi, fresh scallops, sweet shrimp, and delicate seafood preparations. Its fragrant fruit character and refined texture also complement pan-seared mahi-mahi, steamed white fish, lobster, and lightly seasoned grilled seafood. For traditional Japanese cuisine, pair with salt-seasoned yakitori, vegetable tempura, and white fish carpaccio with lemon and soy sauce. Cheese lovers will appreciate its affinity for fresh goat cheese, young Brie, mild Camembert, and delicate creamy cheeses. An elegant choice for aperitifs, sophisticated entertaining, and seafood-focused dining.
Winery Story: Tsukinowa Brewery is a historic family-owned sake producer located in Shiwa, Iwate Prefecture, in northern Japan. Established in 1886, the brewery has preserved generations of traditional Japanese sake-making craftsmanship while embracing thoughtful innovation and a deep respect for local ingredients. The region's cold winters, pristine mountain water, and exceptional sake rice provide ideal conditions for producing beautifully refined and expressive sake. Tsukinowa follows the traditional Nanbu brewing style, emphasizing meticulous rice preparation, careful fermentation, and harmony between the sake's individual components. Under the guidance of master brewer Hiroko Yokosawa, one of Japan's relatively few female toji, the brewery continues to distinguish itself through precision, creativity, and dedication to quality. Midnight Moon, known in Japanese as "Yoi-no-Tsuki," beautifully embodies this philosophy. Crafted with locally grown Ginginga rice, distinctive regional yeast, and a small addition of house-distilled rice alcohol, this elegant Daiginjo celebrates the artistry, heritage, and unmistakable character of Iwate sake.
