Kokuryu Crystal Dragon Ginjo (720ml)

Kokuryu Shuzo was founded in 1804 in Eiheiji, a town in Fukui Prefecture nestled among the mountains near the head temple of Zen Buddhism's Soto sect. The brewery draws its water from snowmelt off sacred Mount Hakusan, filtered underground before emerging as the soft, mineral-rich flow of the Kuzuryu River, whose name, meaning Nine-Headed Dragon, inspired Crystal Dragon's own. Kokuryu has built a reputation for restraint and finesse, favoring quiet balance over bold aromatics, and is one of the few breweries still growing some of its own rice.

Crystal Dragon is brewed from Gohyakumangoku rice polished down to 50 percent, technically placing it at daiginjo level despite its ginjo label. Fermentation proceeds slowly at low temperatures, a patient process that allows the soft local water to shape a clean, refined character. The resulting texture has often been compared to the smoothness of Habutae silk, a textile for which Fukui is also known.

On the nose, Crystal Dragon offers tropical notes of banana, pineapple, and ripe melon alongside hints of peach and lily. The palate stays rich yet restrained, moving toward a crisp, dry finish with soft mineral undertones. Serve it chilled alongside squid, scallops, or other umami-rich seafood for a naturally complementary match.