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Along Japan's 29,000 kilometers of coastline, one of the most picturesque spots is found towards the northern end of the main island of Honshu on the Sanriku Coast. Located in Iwate Prefecture, this breathtaking coastline is in parts dominated by 200-meter-high cliffs and towering rock formations, which have led to it being known as the "Alps of the Sea."
With its strong maritime links, Iwate Prefecture naturally prides itself on its seafood. And perhaps the best option here is the quintessential Japanese food of sushi. The sushi served in Iwate Prefecture includes familiar varieties, such as the roe from the salmon that frequent the rivers of this prefecture. A variety of sushi that tends not to be seen so much in other parts of Japan, though, uses the oysters that thrive in these northern waters. Another tasty local specialty is the sea squirt. These sessile sea creatures are particularly prolific off the Sanriku Coast and, despite the inelegant name, do make for delightful sushi.
In sushi bars around the world, the wise customer knows that there is no better accompaniment for the seafood than a good sake. And in Iwate Prefecture, the best choice is the fine local sake, of which Nanbu Bijin, brewed in Ninohe, is outstanding. Nanbu Bijin is brewed with the local water, which is naturally filtered as it makes its slow descent through the mountain rock.
As well as fine water, though, the quality of first-rate sake depends heavily on the skills and experience of the toji head brewer. Here, Nanbu Bijin is unusual in that the owner of this family-run brewery also works as the head brewer. And the head brewer's deep knowledge in creating sake is masterfully evident in Nanbu Bijin's junmai, a rich sake with a billowing nose that is an eloquent testament to the brewing art. |
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