Collection: Saké Junmai daiginjo & Junmai ginjo

The term "Junmai" in sake refers to pure sake, made only from rice, water and kōji, with no added alcohol. This means that the sake is made in the traditional way, retaining all the authenticity of the rice's natural flavors. This type of sake is often appreciated for its rich mouthfeel and balance, with notes of fruit or melon, depending on the style and polish of the rice.

The main difference between a Junmai Daiginjo and a Junmai Ginjo lies in the polishing of the rice. For a Junmai Daiginjo, the rice is polished to 50% or less of its original weight, while for a Junmai Ginjo, polishing is carried out to 60% or less. This polishing process removes the outer layers of the rice, which may contain impurities and less refined flavors, to reveal purer, fruitier aromas.

As a result, Junmai Daiginjo offers more subtle, complex aromas, with a silkier texture and delicate mouthfeel, while Junmai Ginjo has fruitier, fresher notes, often perceived as more approachable. Both types of sake, especially Junmai Daiginjo, are renowned for their quality and ability to offer a refined tasting experience, but Junmai Daiginjo is considered the more prestigious of the two.

A Junmai Daiginjo or Junmai Ginjo should be served at a cool temperature, generally between 8°C and 12°C, to preserve its delicate aromas and silky texture. At this temperature, the fruity and floral notes, such as those of melon or fresh fruit, come to the fore. It can also be served slightly cooler, at around 6°C, for an even more lively, refreshing experience.

These sakes are often enjoyed at cool temperatures to appreciate the quality of their aromas, but it is also possible to warm them slightly to around 15°C if you prefer a rounder, softer mouthfeel. Ideally, however, they should be served cold to appreciate their subtlety and balance.

Junmai Daiginjo and Junmai Ginjo go wonderfully well with delicate, refined dishes that showcase their subtle aromas and elegant texture. Here are a few pairing suggestions:

• Sashimi and sushi : The fruity, fresh notes of these sakes go perfectly with raw fish, such as salmon, tuna or sea bass.
• White fish: Light fish dishes, such as halibut or sole, complement the sweetness and finesse of sake.
• White meats : Roast or grilled chicken can be accompanied by a Junmai Ginjo for a subtle contrast between the tenderness of the meat and the balance of the sake.
• Fine cheeses: Soft cheeses such as Brie and Camembert also go well with Junmai Daiginjo, where fruit aromas balance the richness of the cheese.
• Vegetarian dishes: Steamed or grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or shiitake mushrooms, reveal the complexity of sake's flavors.

Once opened, a bottle of Junmai Daiginjo or Junmai Ginjo can be kept for around 1-2 weeks if stored properly. Keeping it refrigerated is essential to preserve its freshness and delicate aromas. Cool temperatures slow down oxidation, helping to maintain the sake's balance and quality, while preserving its fruity notes and balanced mouthfeel.

However, as sake ages after opening, its flavors may become less distinct, and it may lose some of its elegance. To fully appreciate the quality of sake, we recommend that you consume it soon after opening.

Junmai Daiginjo and Junmai Ginjo are often considered ideal for sake beginners because of their smooth texture, fruity aromas and balanced mouthfeel. Their finesse and lightness make for a pleasant tasting experience, even for those not yet accustomed to stronger or more bitter sakes.

Their floral notes, often of melon, fresh fruit or citrus, are accessible and pleasant, offering a more subtle, less intense flavor profile than other types of sake. What's more, the fact that they are served chilled or slightly chilled reinforces their refreshing character, which can be particularly appreciated by novices.

Although they are considered high-end sakes, their quality and smoothness make them an excellent choice for those wishing to discover sake in all its complexity without being overwhelmed by overpowering flavors. This makes them perfect options for beginners seeking a refined first experience.