| Brand | Hakutsuru |
| Region | Hyogo, Japan |
| Spirits Type | Sake |
| Spirits Style | Futsushu |
| ABV | 15.3% / Rice Polishing: 70% |
Product details
Nestled in the heart of Kobe’s famed Nada district, Hakutsuru Sake Brewing Co. has been mastering sake since 1743, its name—“white crane”—symbolizing purity and good fortune. Toji‑Kan, literally “Brewer’s Pride,” is a passion project conceived by renowned toji (head brewmaster) Masao Nakazawa. It represents a rare honor, bestowed only twice in Hakutsuru’s long history, recognizing not just brewing skill but leadership and human warmth within the brewery team. Crafted from 100% Yamada‑Nishiki rice polished to 70%, and guided by Nakazawa alongside the kurabito (brewery workers), this futsushu (table sake) blurs the line between everyday enjoyment and sophisticated indulgence.
Toji‑Kan reveals a mellow, aromatic nose with rich nutty undertones and a refined, slightly dry finish. Its medium body invites a harmonious balance of umami and subtle sweetness, with tasting notes evoking chestnut, kinako (toasted soybean flour), mild brown sugar, and marzipan-like warmth. Versatile in service, it shines at room temperature or chilled for elegant complexity, and even more luxurious when gently warmed (40–55 °C), ideal for cozy evenings. As for pairings, it’s incredibly food‑friendly—perfect with sushi, savory ramen or noodle soups, crispy fried chicken, quiche, and hearty comfort dishes like shepherd’s pie, miso‑butter salmon, or beef stew. A sake born of respect, community, and craft, Hakutsuru Toji‑Kan Brewer’s Pride is the embodiment of warm camaraderie in every sip.
