Hello everyone! I’m Uchida, Sake Diploma of Tabitebako in Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market.
The holiday season in Japan isn’t just Christmas—it’s a festive stretch filled with family gatherings, celebrations, and unforgettable meals. If you’re looking to elevate those special moments, nothing pairs better than a remarkable bottle of Japanese sake. Today, I’m excited to share three standout selections perfect for this time of year.
Limited Releases & Seasonal Gems
1) Special Hōmon Masamune
Brewed by Shirataki (Hyogo), Distributed by Odawaraya
Available in: Australia, Taiwan, Japan
Shipping starts: December 1 (limited to June and December only)
Once adored in high-end restaurants frequented by politicians and business elites from the Meiji to Showa eras, this sake was praised in an old saying:
“Excellent sake? Hōmon. Elegant geisha? Shinbashi.”
Crafted from Japan’s premier rice Yamadanishiki (Grade A-a) using the traditional kimoto method and brewed with the famed Miyamizu water of Nada, this sake delivers exquisite depth—rich umami, crisp finish, and a subtle cedar aroma gained through careful maturation.
Perfect Pairings:
• Braised fish
• Grilled eel (unagi)
• Dishes with a savoury-sweet glaze
2) Silent Night
Dewatsuru Brewery, Akita
Available in: Japan only
Shipping starts: Early December
This is Dewatsuru’s first brew of the season, bottled on the very day it's pressed—capturing the essence of freshly fallen snow. The design evokes a quiet winter night, and the flavour has youthful liveliness, smooth texture, and crystalline aroma.
Best enjoyed chilled, preferably in a wine glass
Pairs beautifully with: cheese, carpaccio, and light festive entrées.
3) Hōjun Omachi
Komatsu Shuzōten, Oita
Available in: Australia, Taiwan, Japan
Shipping starts: November 15
Sake made from Omachi rice is famously brilliant with raw oysters—and this bottle is no exception. Sip after a fresh oyster and you’ll feel the flavours expand gently, finishing with a long, elegant aftertaste.
Personal tip from me:
Skip the lemon—try a squeeze of sudachi instead. Its refreshing aroma enhances both the oyster’s oceanic sweetness and the sake’s mellow richness. If you get your hands on this bottle, you owe yourself this pairing at least once.
🥂 Temperature & Glass Tips
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Hōmon Masamune: versatile—enjoy chilled, at room temperature, or warm
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Silent Night & Hōjun Omachi: definitely chilled
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Silent Night becomes stunningly aromatic in a wine glass
🎉 Explore Your Sake Style
From bold traditional profiles to fruity modern expressions, sake is a universe of taste. This season is the perfect excuse to explore and find your favourite style.
📩 Monthly Sake Picks
Our certified Sake Diploma holders Uchida & Seo introduce new themed recommendations every month. Don’t miss it!
🛒 Shop With Us
At Tabitebako in Tsukiji, we offer 50+ types of sake and 10+ island craft beers ready to taste.
Our online store ships selected bottles to Japan, Taiwan, and Australia. And if you're in Tokyo, come visit us—we love pouring for curious drinkers!
https://umi-machi.com/tabitebako/
