Isojiman Sake: Shizuoka’s Pursuit of Premium Japanese Sake

Isojiman (磯自慢) is a sake brand from Isojiman Shuzo, a brewery founded in 1830. It is based in Yaizu, a fishing port in Shizuoka Prefecture. The brewery describes itself as an early pioneer of ginjo brewing in Shizuoka. Its sake is known for gentle fruit aromas and a clean finish designed to complement food. What makes it interesting is not one secret ingredient. Instead, it is a chain of choices. About 65% of its rice is Yamada Nishiki from the Tojo district of Hyogo. The water comes from the Oi River system, and the brewery keeps its own yeast. Then there is the cold. In fact, the brewery says it borrowed ideas from Yaizu’s seafood-freezing industry to keep its brewing rooms chilled. This guide follows that chain from the port to the glass. Along the way, it also shows something about the restrained, food-friendly character often linked with Shizuoka sake. It covers the product range and the Blue Bottle single-field series. It also explains the summit toasts and how to choose and serve a bottle. Quick Facts: Isojiman SakeJapanese name磯自慢 (Isojiman), pronounced ee-so-jee-mahnBreweryIsojiman Shuzo Co., Ltd. (English name: Isojiman Premium-Sake Brewing Co., Ltd.)LocationIwashigashima...