| Brand | Tozai |
| Region | Kyoto, Kinki, Japan |
| Spirits Type | Sake |
| Spirits Style | Junmai |
| ABV | 14.9% / Rice Polishing: 70% |
Product details
Tozai’s Living Jewel Junmai, brewed in Kyoto’s historic Fushimi district by Kizakura Brewery, showcases the art of sake-making deeply rooted in tradition yet designed for global enjoyment. Named after Japan’s vibrant koi fish—celebrated as “living jewels” for their shimmering, colorful scales and symbolism of good fortune—the label evokes both elegance and approachability. Crafted from Koshihikari rice polished to 70% seimaibuai, this junmai sake reflects a balance of precision and restraint. At 14.9% ABV with a Nihonshū‑dō (SMV) of +6.5, it offers a medium‑dry, clean style that bridges Japanese tradition and Western palates. The bottling, featuring origami patterns and hand‑painted koi imagery, further communicates the brand’s intent to bring Japanese culture into everyday contexts—even for sake newcomers.
On the nose, Living Jewel opens with refined aromas of white grape, anise, and a delicate trace of sweet rice, setting the stage for a palate that is light yet layered. The taste unfolds with vibrant citrus, a hint of white pepper, and fresh herbal notes, all carried on a slightly creamy texture and culminating in a long, clean finish. Its crispness and balance make it exceptionally versatile—especially alongside baked herbed salmon, grilled lobster, or light poultry dishes like tarragon‑infused lemon‑chicken scaloppine.
