Tozai Snow Maiden Sake Review

Welcome, sake enthusiasts, to the world of Tozai Snow Maiden, a Junmai Nigori sake that’s as enchanting as its namesake. This sake isn’t just a drink; it’s a tale of endurance and beauty, named after Hanako, the legendary Japanese koi fish that lived for 226 years in the icy waters at the foot of Japan’s Mt. Ontake.

But the Snow Maiden isn’t just a pretty name. It’s a sake that’s earned its stripes, ranking #3 on our competitive list of best nigori sakes. This is no small feat, considering the vast array of nigori sakes available in the market. So, what makes the Snow Maiden so special? Let’s dive in and find out.

What is a Junmai Nigori Sake?

Ever wondered what’s behind the cloudy, dreamy appearance of some sakes? Well, let me introduce you to Junmai Nigori, the superstar of the sake world that likes to keep things a bit mysterious.

Junmai Nigori is a type of sake that has not been filtered of its rice particles completely, resulting in a cloudy appearance. The word ‘Junmai’ means ‘pure rice’, indicating that the sake is made purely from rice, water, yeast, and koji, without any additional alcohol. ‘Nigori’, on the other hand, translates to ‘cloudy’, which is a nod to its unique, milky appearance.

But it’s not just about the looks! The unfiltered rice particles contribute to a rich, creamy texture that’s a real treat for your palate. It’s like a sake milkshake, but better! The flavors are often more pronounced, with a lovely balance of sweetness and umami that can stand up to a wide range of foods.

So, if you’re up for a sake experience that’s a bit out of the ordinary, Junmai Nigori might just be your new best friend. It’s traditional, it’s modern, it’s a bit of a rebel – and it’s absolutely delicious!

Notes/Flavors

The Tozai sake is a delightful symphony of flavors that will dance on your palate. This Junmai Nigori is a rich and sweet sake that boasts a lovely combination of flavors:

1. Honeydew Melon: A sweet and refreshing note that brings a lightness to the sake.
2. Raw Pumpkin: This unique flavor adds a depth and earthiness that balances the sweetness.
3. Radish: A subtle hint of radish adds a crisp, peppery note that rounds out the flavor profile.

The creamy texture and full body of this sake make it a real treat for the senses. Each sip is like a snowflake, unique and full of surprises.

Pairing

When it comes to pairing, the Tozai Snow Maiden sake is quite versatile. Its rich and sweet profile makes it a perfect companion for a variety of dishes. Here are some pairing suggestions that can elevate your dining experience to new heights:

1. Spicy Foods: The sweetness of the sake can balance the heat of spicy dishes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
2. Crab: The delicate, sweet flavor of crab is enhanced by the fruity notes of the sake.
3. Pork: The richness of pork pairs well with the full-bodied, creamy texture of this sake.
4. Spicy Tuna Poke: The spicy and savory flavors of a tuna poke bowl are complemented by the sweet and fruity notes of the sake.

Experiment with different pairings to discover your personal favorite!

Alcohol Content

The Tozai Snow Maiden sake has an alcohol content of 14.9%. This is fairly standard for sake, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a drink with a bit of a kick but not too overpowering.

Ingredients

This Junmai Nigori sake is made with Gohyakumangoku and Gin-Ohmi rice varieties, polished to 70%. The yeast variety used is Association No. 9. The result is a sake with a Sake Meter Value of +6.5 and an acidity level of 1.6.

Where To Buy

Ready to try the Tozai sake for yourself? You can purchase it online at Tippsy Sake. They offer a wide array of sakes, including the delightful Tozai Snow Maiden, and they’ll ship it straight to your front door.

Remember, the Tozai Snow Maiden junmai nigori sake is not just any sake, it’s a top-ranked Junmai Nigori that has won the hearts of many sake enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this exceptional sake for yourself!