Masuizumi : Van Gaihen

Characteristics and tasting notes of Masuizumi's Van Gaihen

Tasting

Nose
The nose reveals notes of milk chocolate dessert and cappuccino, accompanied by fermentary nuances evoking mushroom. Tree bark and fresh walnut gradually unfold. With aeration, the profile evolves and brings to mind a Manzanilla-style Jerez, becoming fruitier with nectarine aromas.

Palate
The palate confirms the nose with powdered cocoa in addition. A spicy dimension develops, accompanied by veal stock notes. The texture is reminiscent of a Meursault, with beautiful length and salted butter caramel notes. The oakiness remains very subtle. The finish is discreet, milky and creamy.

Food pairings and tasting occasions

This sake pairs perfectly with pan-fried morels in cream, aged Gouda or rosemary tarte tatin. It also pairs very well with fish and seafood-based cuisine. The ideal serving temperature is between 6 and 12°C.

Mixology

This exceptional sake should be enjoyed without artifice to fully appreciate the complexity of its aging in Burgundy barrels.

A sake from Toyama aged in Burgundy barrels

Masuizumi, the fountain of happiness from Toyama

Founded in 1893 in Iwase in Toyama Prefecture, Masuda Shuzo Ten produces the Japanese sake Masuizumi, whose name means "fountain of happiness". A pioneer of modern sakes since the post-war period, it distinguished itself forty years ago by producing exceptional ginjo. Today led by Ryuichiro Masuda, fifth generation at the head of the estate, Masuizumi combines tradition and bold innovation. The brewery notably experiments with aging in Burgundy, Champagne and whisky casks, collaborating with Richard Geoffroy, former cellar master of Dom Pérignon, to create unprecedented aromatic profiles.

Van Gaihen 2018, an exceptional junmai sake

This Van Gaihen perfectly illustrates the innovative approach of Masuda House. This sake junmai benefits from aging in second-fill Burgundy barrels, a bold method that gives it a smooth texture and aromatic complexity reminiscent of great white Burgundy wines.

Produced in limited number of bottles, this unique sake results from a meticulous blending creating a complex and deep profile. The aging in Burgundy casks brings subtle woody notes and exceptional richness on the palate, while preserving the finesse and drinkability characteristic of a quality sake. This cuvée reflects Ryuichiro Masuda's desire to push the boundaries of traditional sake by drawing inspiration from European winemaking techniques.