Tatenokawa Sake: Precision, Purity, and Perfection
In the world of Japanese sake, few breweries embody the dedication to perfection quite like Tatenokawa, a brewery from Yamagata Prefecture celebrated for its unwavering focus on Junmai Daiginjo Sake. Known for its extraordinary craftsmanship and pursuit of excellence, Tatenokawa has earned a reputation as one of Japan’s most innovative sake producers. At Sushi ii, we are proud to offer a selection of Tatenokawa’s finest sakes, including Komyo, Soube Wase, Kyuru, and Seiryu, allowing our guests to experience the pinnacle of Sake artistry.
The Philosophy Behind Tatenokawa
Tatenokawa Brewery, founded in 1832, operates with a singular focus: crafting only Junmai Daiginjo Sakes. This exclusive dedication to the highest grade of sake reflects the brewery’s commitment to precision, purity, and the pursuit of perfection. The process starts with meticulously sourced Yamada Nishiki rice, often referred to as the “king of sake rice,” and incorporates advanced polishing techniques that remove more than 50% of the grain’s outer layer, resulting in sakes of exceptional clarity and refinement.
Tatenokawa is also known for its commitment to innovation. The brewery has continually pushed the boundaries of rice polishing, achieving incredible feats like its Komyo Sake, made with rice polished down to an unprecedented 1% of its original size. Tatenokawa’s devotion to tradition and willingness to innovate makes it a standout in the world of sake.
Tatenokawa Sakes at Sushi ii
Sushi ii is proud to feature a curated selection of Tatenokawa’s most exquisite sakes. Each offering showcases the brewery’s masterful techniques and commitment to excellence, pairing beautifully with the nuanced flavors of our sushi.
Komyo is the pinnacle of Tatenokawa’s craft, representing the brewery’s boldest innovation. Made from rice polished down to just 1% of its original grain size, this sake is an extraordinary achievement in both technique and flavor. With delicate floral and fruity aromas and a supremely clean finish, Komyo is a sake that defines elegance. It pairs best with Sushi ii’s finest sashimi, where its clarity complements the purity of raw fish.
Named after the strain of rice used, Soube Wase is a masterful representation of balance and complexity. This Junmai Daiginjo sake delivers refined fruity notes of green apple and melon, paired with a subtle floral aroma. The result is a silky-smooth Sake that pairs beautifully with lighter sushi options, such as white fish or scallops, elevating each bite with its clean and refreshing profile.
Known for its vibrant and fruity profile, Kyuru offers notes of tropical fruits like pineapple and mango, complemented by a silky smooth texture. This sake pairs beautifully with rich and flavorful sushi options such as fatty tuna or eel, adding a bright contrast to the dish's natural umami.
One of Tatenokawa’s most versatile sakes, Seiryu features crisp, refreshing flavors with hints of green apple and white peach. Its clean finish makes it a perfect companion for a variety of sushi, from delicate white fish to lightly seared options like salmon or mackerel. Seiryu represents the precision of Tatenokawa’s brewing techniques while remaining approachable and easy to enjoy.
Yamagata’s Sake Legacy
Tatenokawa Brewery is deeply rooted in Yamagata Prefecture, a region renowned for its pristine water, fertile rice fields, and cool climate—all essential elements for brewing exceptional sake. As one of Japan’s “Ginjo Kingdoms,” Yamagata is home to a long tradition of producing sakes with a refined and delicate character. Tatenokawa has not only upheld this legacy but has also pushed it forward with innovations that continue to elevate the region’s reputation in the global sake industry.
Modern Innovation Meets Timeless Tradition
While Tatenokawa remains deeply connected to traditional sake brewing practices, it has also embraced modern technology to refine its processes. The brewery’s groundbreaking rice polishing techniques, precise temperature control during fermentation, and dedication to quality assurance ensure that every bottle of Tatenokawa Sake meets the highest standards. This fusion of innovation and tradition makes Tatenokawa a symbol of sake’s bright future.
Tatenokawa Sake is an experience that embodies the artistry, precision, and passion of Japanese craftsmanship. At Sushi ii, we are honored to showcase Tatenokawa’s incredible sakes, including Komyo, Soube Wase, Kyuru, and Seiryu. Each sip tells a story of tradition and innovation, pairing seamlessly with the delicate flavors of our sushi and offering our guests a taste of perfection.