Discover the allure of Dewazakura’s rare “Nama Sake”—a fresh, unpasteurized gem crafted with precision. Experience its delicate flavors and explore why limited-edition Japanese sake captivates connoisseurs worldwide.

When Supermarket Errands Lead to Sake Discoveries

On an ordinary grocery run, I stumbled upon a liquor store and left with something far from ordinary—Dewazakura’s limited-edition sake. While the name Dewazakura is synonymous with quality and can be found in supermarkets, this particular bottle felt like the VIP version.

Apparently, it’s a product so exclusive it’s only sold at select stores. Why? Because exclusivity sells, especially in Japan. It’s almost as if the phrase, “You can only get it here,” was invented solely for us. (If you thought “Well, that’s obvious,” do yourself a favor and don’t say it out loud.)

The sake I bought is a “Nama Sake,” meaning it hasn’t been pasteurized, coupled with the label “Shiboritate,” which refers to sake freshly pressed right after brewing. It’s like the sake equivalent of picking strawberries straight off the vine. Who wouldn’t be curious about something this fresh?

The Legacy of Dewazakura Sake Brewery

Founded in 1892, Dewazakura Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. made its mark with the introduction of “Ouka Ginjo Sake,” the brewery’s signature product. At the time, ginjo sake was still a niche product in Japan, only appearing at sake competitions.

“Ouka Ginjo Sake” not only contributed to the domestic popularity of ginjo sake but also started being exported overseas in 1997. Now, Dewazakura sake is enjoyed in over 25 countries around the world.

Tasting Notes: Like Snow Melting in Your Mouth

This sake is sharp yet fruity, with a finish that lives up to its poetic name: “Yuki Manman” (loosely translated as “Snow Eternally”). The sensation is akin to snow softly melting on your tongue. If that doesn’t make sense, think of the delicate crumble of wasanbon sugar—or for the non-Japanese palate, a meringue cookie.

The word “manman” is rarely used in daily conversation, more likely to appear in old literature. It means “vast and boundless,” which feels fitting for the sake’s airy, ephemeral texture. It’s as if the brewer found a poetic way to describe “delicate but unforgettable.”

Perfect Pairings: A Feast of Flavors

On the night I opened this bottle, I paired it with various dishes:

• Dashimaki tamago
• Fried tofu
• Fresh oysters
• Shirako (cod milt)
• Smoked daikon pickles with cream cheese

The sake’s clean, non-lingering finish makes it versatile—perfect for enhancing rich dishes without overwhelming them. Or you could savor it on its own, a quiet celebration in a glass.

Conclusion

Dewazakura’s limited-edition sake offers not just a drink but an experience—one that’s fresh, poetic, and worth seeking out. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best finds aren’t on your list—they’re discovered when you least expect them.