Heiwa Shuzo "KID Hiyaoroshi"

The Story

Every autumn, sake enthusiasts eagerly await the release of seasonal "Hiyaoroshi" sakes. These selections are pressed fresh in the winter, pasteurized once, and then left to age over the summer months. By the time they are released in the fall, any harsh edges have rounded off, resulting in a sake with a mellow and balanced profile. Heiwa Shuzou’s yearly fall release is a textbook example of why we love this style. Using the legendary soft spring water of Wakayama, it creates a gentle, pillowy mouthfeel that captures the essence of the harvest season.

Tasting Profile

Aroma: Gentle and fruity, with distinct notes of ripe banana and steamed rice.

Palate: True to the KID style, this has a soft and velvety mouthfeel. The fruitiness of the aroma settles into a comfortable, gentle umami that fills the mouth without being heavy.

Finish: Clean, short & smooth.

Serving & Pairing

Serving Temperature: This bottle presents beautifully at almost any temperature. It is delicious chilled to highlight the fruit, but like many Hiyaoroshi, it opens up beautifully at room temperature or even gently warmed.

Food Pairings: This is a fall sake, so think seasonal foods. It pairs perfectly with the savory, earthy flavors associated with the autumn harvest; think roasted mushrooms, root vegetables, grilled, roasted fish, hot pot.

Why We Love It
Heiwa Shuzou is one of the most exciting breweries in Japan right now, balancing a young, energetic vibe with serious technical skill. This Hiyaoroshi is a favorite of ours in part because it highlights their specific water source, Koyasan Nansui (soft mountain-filtered water), which contributes its trademark silky texture. It’s the perfect transition bottle as the weather starts to cool down.

About the Brewery: Heiwa Shuzou
Located in a valley in Kainan City, Wakayama, Heiwa Shuzou was originally built as a temple before becoming a brewery. The name "Heiwa" translates to "Peace" or "Harmony," adopted after WWII. While they have four generations of history, the "KID" brand is relatively young (launched about 10 years ago) and represents the new wave of craft sake—approachable, fresh, and terroir-driven.

Specs