Takara Sake - Sho Chiku Bai Junmai-shu

Takara Sake USA brews Sho Chiku Bai Junmai-shu in Berkeley, California, continuing a lineage that stretches back to Takara Shuzo in Japan. By sourcing rice from the Sacramento Valley and water drawn from Sierra Nevada snowmelt, this American-made Classic Junmai embodies a bridge between heritage and place.

This Junmai is brewed purely from rice, water, koji, and yeast, with no added distilled alcohol. The result is a fuller, grain-forward sake where the rice remains relatively intact, delivering a savory, umami character enhanced by higher acidity and modest processing.

Tasting notes

• Nose: macadamia nut, vanilla, and warm spice.
• Palate: creamy texture with a grain-forward, savory, umami profile; higher acidity provides brightness on the palate.
• Finish: clean and balanced, with lingering savory notes.

Serving and food pairings

• Best served chilled to maximize aromas and freshness.
• Slightly warming can reveal green apple, custard, and toasted bread notes.
• Food pairings: sushi, grilled pork, ribeye.