Konishi Genroku (180ml, 18%)

In 2020, Konishi Shuzo was awarded the IWC Gold Medal and the Kura Master "Prix du Jury".

With over 460 years of sake-making expertise, Konishi Shuzo possesses historic records containing traditional sake recipes. Genroku Redux is a faithful reconstruction of one such recipe dating back to 1703. The Genroku Era, spanning from 1688 to 1704, marked the Golden Age of the Edo Period, characterised by flourishing arts and architecture.

During this era, sake consumption differed significantly from modern practices. Rice polishing technology was rudimentary, resulting in sake with low polishing rates, such as Genroku Redux, polished only to 88%. Consequently, higher levels of protein and other elements remained in the rice, fermenting into rich, umami flavours. Additionally, due to Japan's isolation during the Edo period, sugar was scarce, leading to a preference for sweeter sake varieties.

The 1703 recipe for Genroku Redux involves using only half the amount of water compared to modern brewing methods, fermenting with natural yeast and lactic acid bacilli in wooden barrels. This process yields a dark amber-coloured sake with a thicker viscosity, evoking the essence of a bygone era.

Genroku Redux boasts a rich, bold profile with notes of nuts, dried fruits, figs, brown sugar, liquorice, and soy. Its sweetness and umami richness make it a delightful standalone drink, whether served straight, warmed, or on the rocks. It also complements rich, savoury dishes like game, pate, chocolate, nuts, mature cheeses, and BBQ flavours.