GUNMA, Japan–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Sake’s geographical indication, “GI Tone-Numata,” which consists of four sake breweries in the Tone-Numata area of Gunma Prefecture in Japan, requires that the breweries make the most of the local water and climate, and that the type of rice used as the raw material be one of the following: Yukihotaka, Gohyakumangoku, or Koshihikari. In addition, only yeast from the local area (Gunma KAZE yeast, Gunma G2 yeast, and brewer’s house yeast) can be used, and vintage can be indicated under certain conditions, so only those that meet the extremely strict criteria are certified.
According to Mr. Shinya Tasaki, Chairman of the Japan Sommelier Association, “GI Tone-Numata is equivalent to PDO in Europe or AOC in French wine and is expected to attract worldwide attention in the future.” On January 17, “GI Tone-Numata” sake as a set of 7 bottles will be released for sale in overseas markets.
The seven kinds of “GI Tone-Numata” sake commonly have a transparent, pale gold color, and an aroma that contains the note of freshly made rice cakes, fruit, almond jelly, green grass, and fresh greenery. The fl avors are characterized by a refreshing acidity, a bitterness that brings richness, a mellow umami and sweetness derived from rice, and a clear impression.
These seven types of certified sake, from sparkling sake for the “kanpai,” to full-flavored sake for the main course, then sweet dessert sake at the end of the meal, can be paired with French cuisine course meals. They go well with ingredients that are difficult to pair with wine, such as fresh tomatoes and eggs.
- The lineup of GI Tone-Numata certified sake and (the examples of) recommended food parings
- MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka AWA SAKE (NAGAI SAKE INC.) and Caprese Salad and Fruit Tomatoes
- Shin Tsuchida GI Tone-Numata Koshihikari (Tsuchida Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.) and Cold Roasted Duck with orange sauce
- Sadaijin Koshihikari (Otone Sake Brewery) and Penne carbonara
- Shin Tsuchida GI Tone-Numata Yukihotaka (Tsuchida Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.) and Scallop Meuniere, Provencal
- MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Junmai Daiginjo (NAGAI SAKE INC.) and Vichyssoise
- TONENISHIKI JUNMAI KOSHIHIKARI 90 (Nagai-honke Inc.) and Akagi Chicken Fricassee with steamed vegetables
- MIZUBASHO Yukihotaka Dessert Sake (NAGAI SAKE INC.) and Strawberry Shortcake