14dai Sake- Discover Japan’s Premium “Phantom Sake”

14dai (14代) is among the most talked-about names in Japanese sake. Folks admire it for its superb taste and top quality. As a result of it’s so laborious to search out, many followers name it a “phantom sake.” On this article, we’ll discover what makes 14dai so particular, the way it began, and why so many individuals all over the world need to style it.

What Makes 14dai Particular?

Takagi Shuzo, a brewery in Murayama Metropolis in Yamagata Prefecture, makes 14dai. It stands out due to its wealthy and fruity style. Whereas many sakes observe a lightweight and dry fashion, 14dai modified the sport. It affords a mellow sweetness and umami that come from rigorously chosen rice. Every bottle provides a barely completely different expertise, however all of them share a easy, fruit-like character. Some variations even have a crisp, clear end that leaves you wanting extra.

How 14dai Started

Origins and Early Custom

Juyondai (十四代, which means “14th Technology”) is a legendary sake model crafted by Takagi Shuzo, a family-run brewery based in 1615 in Murayama, Yamagata Prefecture. For over 400 years, the Takagi household has handed down their craft, in addition to the title “Tatsugoro,” from era to era.

Initially, the brewery produced native manufacturers similar to “Asahi-Takashi” and “Kuronawa.”

Innovation within the Nineties

By the Nineties, the sake market was struggling as clear, dry types dominated. The 14th-generation chief, Tatsugoro Takagi, modified course. He centered on brewing wealthy, aromatic sake, which went in opposition to modern developments and helped revive curiosity in premium sake.

The Start of Juyondai

In 1993, Akitsuna Takagi, the Fifteenth-generation inheritor, returned to run the brewery after learning fermentation and dealing in retail. When selecting a reputation for his new sake, he tried a number of, however solely “Juyondai” was accepted for trademark—probably a fortunate mistake. The identify honored the household’s lengthy historical past and stood out from conventional, hard-to-read sake names.

Brewing Philosophy and Craftsmanship

Juyondai’s fame soared because of its daring flavors, handmade brewing strategies, and an progressive but deeply conventional strategy. Manufacturing is restricted and thoroughly managed to maintain demand excessive and create a way of exclusivity across the model.

Legacy and Trendy Management

Following Tatsugoro Takagi’s passing in 2022, Akitsuna formally took the “Tatsugoro” title. Right this moment, Juyondai continues to encourage sake makers by demonstrating how a household legacy, craftsmanship, and the braveness to innovate can remodel a centuries-old trade.

Particular Rice and Brewing Strategies

14dai isn’t simply recognized for its style. The brewery additionally grows its personal particular sake rice. Some unique varieties embrace “Sake Mirai,” “Ryu no Otoshigo,” and “Ushu Homare.” The 14th-generation head of the household spent 18 years creating “Sake Mirai,” a cross between “Yamada Nishiki” and “Miyama Nishiki,” to swimsuit the native local weather.

Takagi Shuzo additionally sticks to conventional brewing strategies. They polish their rice with nice care and use pure underground water wealthy in minerals. Most steps are completed by hand, not by machines. This further effort provides to the standard and taste of 14dai.

Last Ideas

14dai mixes deep custom with a contemporary strategy. With its easy style, wealthy historical past, and cautious craftsmanship, it continues to win hearts all over the world. For those who love sake or need to strive one thing particular, 14dai is a superb selection to start your journey.

For many who recognize the nuanced complexities of Juyondai, exploring related premium Japanese sakes that emphasize distinctive rice varieties or conventional brewing strategies could possibly be a pleasant journey.