Lagoon, a place where life gathers.

The Japanese kanji characters in Niigata's name mean "new lagoon," because the land is spotted with lakes and marshes. These wetlands are places where life of all kind gathers, as growing plants attract insects, fish, and birds. We humans, as well, have become part of that cycle of life as we gather at the water's edge to enjoy its abundance. That is why we at Ishimoto Sake Brewery chose the name Lagoon for this sake, as we hope that it, too, will bring abundance to life and connect people with one another. Each bottle of Lagoon embodies that desire.

Drinking on the rocks or with soda
brings refreshing flavor to outdoor activities.

Lagoon, with its higher alcohol content and richer flavor, is a sake perfect for enjoying at various temperatures and mixed in different ways. Once you've had it straight at room temperature, we recommend trying it mixed 1:1 with well-chilled soda water, no ice. Another choice is pouring over ice for a slightly bitter on-the-rocks treat. Take your time and let the alcohol gradually dilute for another style of enjoyment. The mild weather of spring, when many people enjoy outdoor activities, is perfect for drinking on the rocks or with soda when camping or cooking out.

Sustainable production and
gratitude for Niigata’s natural gifts.

Ishimoto Sake Brewery mission is to "Brew rich moments and contribute to the future of sake and the community." With gratitude and respect for the plentiful good water and the optimal climate for sake brewing in Kameda-go, we seek to repay our local community through sake. The first step on that path is Lagoon. A portion of the proceeds from Lagoon go to support green initiatives for preserving the natural environment of Niigata. Every bottle of Lagoon you purchase becomes a tree planted in Niigata in the hopes of nurturing it for the next 100 years.

Tasting notes by sommelier Shinya Tasaki

Aroma

Clear and expansive aroma with a distinct impression of rice-derived notes. Hints of steamed rice and mochi, with a subtle note reminiscent of rice straw. Along with the sharp high alcohol content scent, similar to vodka, there is a noticeable lactic aroma, with a cream cheese-like scent that includes a hint of bitter almond. The notes harmonize with chamomile tea and stone-like mineral nuances.

Flavor

With a sake meter value of +7, it should be dry, but along with the hit of higher alcohol, the initial impression is a smooth, sweet expansion. A soft umami impression gradually comes through the sweetness, then a dry sensation lingers from the middle onwards into the aftertaste. The aftertaste brings prominent dairy notes, with impressions of cream cheese, heavy cream, and buttercream.

Drinking Recommendations

To fully enjoy the above flavors as-is, it's best to savor at a temperature of 16-18°C. For a crisper taste, chill in the refrigerator and add a small amount of equally chilled soda water. On the rocks, it imparts a sharper, drier impression, making it suitable as a base for cocktails like the Lagoon Martini, with dry vermouth and lemon peel.

Pairing Recommendations

When enjoyed straight at around 18°C, this sake, with its buttercream-like notes, pairs wonderfully with dishes that accentuate those lactic flavors.

• Spaghetti alla carbonara
• Macaroni gratin and doria
• Whale soup
• Creamed crab croquettes
• Salmon Meunière
• Cheese fondue