わかむすめ 燕子花 純米大吟醸 火入れ 1800ml

Brewery History:
Shintani Shuzo was founded in 1927 in Tokuji, Yamaguchi City. It is run by third-generation president Yoshinao Shintani and toji Fumiko Shintani—Yamaguchi’s first female master brewer. The brand name Wakamusume (“young maiden”) reflects a small, hand-made style built on balance of acidity and umami. Kakitsubata is the flagship junmai daiginjo and has won gold at the National New Sake Appraisal, plus honours at Kura Master and IWC.

Sake Introduction:
Kakitsubata (Japanese iris) means “happiness will come.” Upgraded from junmai ginjo to junmai daiginjo in 2019, it uses 100% Yamadanishiki from Tokuji polished to 40%. This 1800ml version is unfiltered genshu, then bottle-pasteurized once: the ginjo aroma stays vivid, while the palate is more settled than the nama. Aroma, sweetness and acidity are carefully aligned—Fumiko’s signature brew, best served chilled in a wine glass.

Tasting Notes:
Nosing: Elegant, not showy ginjo aroma—pineapple, ripe apple and white flowers.
Palate: Soft Yamadanishiki sweetness like wasanbon sugar, with bright, white-wine-like acidity.
Finish: Clean and crisp, tightened by a hint of bitterness.