Founded in the 1540’s, the Tomita Brewery is one of the oldest breweries in Japan and is now managed by the 15th generation of the family, Yasunobu Tomita, who is also the brewmaster. The Tomita’s named their sake Shichi Hon Yari, or “Seven Spearsmen,” after the leaders of the historic Battle of Shizugatake which was fought just outside their town of Kinomoto. Shichi Hon Yari Junmai is the classic representation of the brewery’s style with its traditional and modern dimensions.

Technically qualifying as a junmai ginjo, this junmai is a great introduction to saké. It is earthy and mushroomy in the nose but reveals light, fresh notes of grapefruit and melon on the palate. Its structure is open and dynamic, its body light, its finish crisp and clean. It complements flavorful foods like cooked Japanese food and French or new American.