Sake from the Heart of Kyoto's Mountains
Miyama Tengori Honjozo is an exceptional sake that captures the essence of Kyoto's mountainous Kyotamba region. Crafted by Oishi Brewery, this award-winning honjozo demonstrates that complexity and refinement aren't limited to premium grades. The name "Miyama" (美山) means "beautiful mountain," while "Tengori" refers to the traditional basket used for carrying sake rice - a fitting tribute to the natural beauty and traditional craftsmanship that define this remarkable sake.
The Kyotamba Terroir
Kyotamba, located in the mountainous northern region of Kyoto Prefecture, offers ideal conditions for sake brewing. The area's pristine mountain water, cool climate, and rich natural environment create the perfect terroir for producing sake with depth and character. Oishi Brewery has been crafting sake in this beautiful region for generations, drawing on both the natural resources and the accumulated wisdom of Kyoto's brewing traditions.
Honjozo Excellence
Honjozo is a sake category that allows for the addition of a small amount of distilled alcohol, which can enhance aroma and create a lighter, more refined texture. In the hands of skilled brewers like those at Oishi, this technique produces sake with remarkable elegance and complexity. Miyama Tengori demonstrates the full potential of honjozo brewing - combining the classic lightness of touch with unexpected depth and sophistication.
Craftsmanship and Quality
Miyama Tengori Honjozo from Kyotamba, Kyoto
£36.00 (as of January 2026)
720ml / Alc 16.5%
Rice Polish Ratio: 70% / SMV: -1
The 70% rice polish ratio and slightly negative sake meter value (-1) create a sake with subtle sweetness and full-bodied character, while the honjozo brewing method ensures a light, elegant texture. This combination results in a beautifully balanced sake that offers both complexity and drinkability.
Tasting Note
Miyama Tengori Honjozo offers a sophisticated and multi-layered tasting experience. The nose presents intriguing earthy, mushroomy notes complemented by the warm, comforting aroma of butter toast - a combination that speaks to the sake's depth and complexity. On the palate, the sake delivers juicy acidity that brings brightness and vitality, while maintaining the classic honjozo lightness of touch that makes it so approachable. The finish reveals a pleasant peppery note that adds character and interest, creating a complete and satisfying drinking experience. This is honjozo brewing at its finest - light yet complex, refined yet full of personality.
Perfect Pairings
The earthy complexity and juicy acidity of Miyama Tengori Honjozo make it an excellent companion to traditional Japanese cuisine. It pairs particularly well with:
- Soba (Buckwheat Noodles) - The earthy notes in the sake create beautiful harmony with nutty buckwheat, while the acidity cuts through rich dipping sauces
- Sashimi - The light texture and clean finish enhance delicate fish without overwhelming subtle flavors
- Grilled Mushrooms - The mushroomy notes in the sake create a perfect pairing with earthy mushroom dishes
- Tempura - The juicy acidity balances fried foods while the light body prevents heaviness
- Yakitori - The peppery finish complements grilled chicken and the char from the grill
- Tofu Dishes - The sake's complexity elevates simple tofu preparations
Award-Winning Recognition
Miyama Tengori Honjozo has earned prestigious international recognition:
- IWC (International Wine Challenge) - Gold Medal
This Gold Medal from one of the world's most respected sake competitions confirms the exceptional quality and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. It's a testament to Oishi Brewery's dedication to excellence across all sake grades.
How to Enjoy
Miyama Tengori Honjozo is wonderfully versatile in terms of serving temperature. Enjoy it slightly chilled (around 10-12°C) to emphasize its elegant, refined character and juicy acidity, at room temperature to bring out its earthy, complex notes, or gently warmed (around 40-45°C) to enhance its comforting, umami-rich qualities. The honjozo style particularly shines when warmed, making it perfect for cooler evenings.
The Kyoto Tradition
As a sake from Kyoto, Miyama Tengori carries the legacy of one of Japan's most important sake-brewing regions. Kyoto's brewing tradition emphasizes elegance, refinement, and balance - qualities that shine through in every sip of this exceptional honjozo. It's a sake that honors tradition while demonstrating the skill and artistry of contemporary brewing.
Availability
Please note that our sake collection is available for purchase in-store only. Selection may vary depending on the season. If you have any questions about our sake, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Storage: Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Refrigerate once open to maintain optimal freshness and flavor.
Experience the beautiful mountains of Kyoto in every sip of Miyama Tengori Honjozo.