Katsuyama Tokubetsu Junmaishu En 15% 1.8L

Katsuyama Tokubetsu Junmai EN (勝山 特別純米 縁) is a food-friendly Junmai sake from Katsuyama Brewery in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. Made with Hitomebore rice grown in Miyagi Prefecture and polished to 55%, EN combines gentle fruit aromas with rounded rice umami and a smooth, clean finish.

The name EN (縁) carries the idea of a connection, bond or meaningful relationship between people, making this an approachable sake designed for sharing around the dining table.

What Does Katsuyama EN Taste Like?

Katsuyama EN is built around balance rather than highly intense Ginjo aromatics.

Aroma: Gentle Fruit • Rice • Subtle Floral Notes

Palate: Smooth • Mellow • Rice Umami • Gentle Sweetness

Finish: Clean • Balanced • Refreshing • Slightly Dry

The palate has enough rice-derived richness to accompany savoury dishes, while its clean finish keeps it highly drinkable throughout a meal.

What Does “EN” Mean?

EN (縁) — a sake celebrating connection, good food and the people we share it with.

Hitomebore Rice

Katsuyama EN is made using Hitomebore, one of Miyagi Prefecture’s best-known rice varieties.

The rice is polished to 55%, which is considerably more refined than the minimum generally associated with ordinary Junmai sake.

This allows Katsuyama to retain satisfying rice character while creating a smoother and cleaner drinking experience.

Food Pairing

Katsuyama EN is particularly suitable as an everyday food sake.

Recommended pairings include sushi, sashimi, grilled fish, yakitori, teriyaki chicken, grilled pork, tempura, tofu, mushrooms, hotpot and lightly seasoned vegetables.

For Singapore-style dishes, consider it with roast chicken, steamed fish, grilled seafood and soy-based dishes.

Recommended Serving Temperature

Chilled: 8–12°C — clean and refreshing

Room temperature: 15–20°C — fuller rice character

Gently warmed: 35–45°C — softer texture and more pronounced umami

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Katsuyama Tokubetsu Junmai EN?

Katsuyama EN is a Tokubetsu Junmai sake from Katsuyama Brewery in Sendai, Miyagi, made with Hitomebore rice polished to 55%.

What does Katsuyama EN taste like?

It has a smooth, mellow and balanced profile, with gentle fruit notes, natural rice umami and a clean refreshing finish.

Is Katsuyama EN sweet or dry?

It is best described as balanced and food-friendly, with gentle rice sweetness followed by a clean, slightly dry impression.

What does EN mean?

EN (縁) refers to connection, affinity or the bonds that bring people together.

What rice is used?

Katsuyama EN uses Hitomebore rice from Miyagi Prefecture.

What is the rice polishing ratio?

The rice is polished to 55%.

What is the alcohol content?

Katsuyama Tokubetsu Junmai EN contains 15% ABV.

Is Katsuyama EN a Junmai Ginjo?

No. It is classified as Tokubetsu Junmai. Although its 55% polishing ratio is highly refined, the brewery markets this expression as Tokubetsu Junmai.

Can Katsuyama EN be served warm?

Yes. Its rice-driven Junmai character makes it suitable chilled, at room temperature or gently warmed.

What food pairs with Katsuyama EN?

It works particularly well with sushi, sashimi, grilled fish, yakitori, tempura, chicken, pork, tofu and hotpot.