Urakasumi Zen has been in production since 1973, when ginjo-style sake was still emerging as a category. From Saura Brewery in Miyagi Prefecture, it represents a balanced, food-first style—full-bodied without heaviness, with a restrained melon and floral aroma. Decades of awards reflect consistent quality rather than trend-chasing.
Editor's Note
A classic that earns its reputation through consistency rather than novelty. A good benchmark for understanding what well-made junmai ginjo looks like at the table.
Quick Reference
Best for
Everyday food pairing—this sake is built for the table rather than for contemplation.
Taste in brief
Well-rounded and balanced—gentle melon and floral aroma on a medium body with a clean, consistent finish.
Serving
Serve chilled. Works consistently at cooler table temperatures.
Food pairing
Fresh seafood, grilled chicken, dressed salads, and sushi—broad compatibility is the defining feature.
Why it stands out
In continuous production since 1973, Urakasumi Zen is one of the longest-running junmai ginjo expressions in Japan—consistency is the point.
For beginners
A dependable first junmai ginjo—it won't surprise you, but it won't disappoint either.
Character
Technical profile
Details shown only when verified against a reliable source.
- Rice variety
- Toyonishiki, Yamadanishiki
- Rice polishing ratio
- 50%
- Alcohol by volume
- 15.5
- Sake meter value
- +1.5
- Acidity
- 1.4
Confidence: high
Food Pairings
- fresh seafood
- grilled chicken
- dressed salads
- sushi
Best Served
Sources
- https://tippsysake.com/products/urakasumi-zen (internal_only)