Ohmine "Winter's Arrival"

The Story

This bottle is a masterclass in modern sake blending, or "assemblage." Every year, Ohmine tweaks the recipe to achieve their ideal winter profile, blending three legendary rice varietals: Omachi, Aiyama, and Yamadanishiki at different ratios. To produce its signature effervescence, they actually add active, fermenting Yamadanishiki rice directly into the tank, capturing a touch of natural, lively bubble in the bottle. The label, designed by Misaki Tanaka, features a woman in a kimono walking through the snow; when you rotate the bottle, the sediment swirls like a snowstorm. It’s a beautiful, seasonal experience before you even pop the cap.

Tasting Profile

Aroma: Fresh and creamy, with hints of dairy and fruit.

Palate: This sake has incredible texture. You get silky notes of lactic acid that remind us of yogurt and creamy burrata cheese, lifted by a natural, lively fizz.

Finish: A soft, elegant sweetness reminiscent of Wasanbon (traditional Japanese finely grated sugar).

Serving & Pairing

Serving Temperature: Chilled (Ohmine recommends a wine glass to show off the aromatics).

Food Pairings: The creamy texture and lactic acidity make this a great fit for savory, rich meats. It is specifically recommended with fried chicken or a juicy steak.

Why We Love It
Ohmine is one of the coolest cult breweries in Japan right now (collaborating with the likes of Pharrell and Nigo), and this bottle is a perfect example as to why. It’s not just about the hype; the sake is fascinating and speaks for itself. The "burrata" note is real—it has a luxurious, creamy weight that balances perfectly with a slightly lower alcohol percentage and light fizz. It feels like a celebration in a bottle. Plus, the "snow globe" effect of the bottle makes it an incredible gift.

About the Brewery: Ohmine Shuzou
Located in Mine City, Yamaguchi, Ohmine Shuzou has a storied history. They resumed operations in 2010 after a 50-year hiatus, effectively bringing a ghost brewery back to life - an extremely rare sight. In 2018, owner Akiyama-san unveiled a stunning, state-of-the-art facility that reflects Ohmine's renewed modern vision. They are revolutionizing the craft sake industry by mastering the balance of acidity and fruitiness, using high-tech temperature control to overcome the traditional challenges of brewing.

Specs