”農魂” Farmer’s Spirit in New York –Hakubai Restaurant Kitano Hotel–

Posted by chiz on February 6, 2010

I’m very proud of working for Japanese organic farm Kanazawa Daichi! They visited New York for introducing their organic products such as miso, soy souse, barley tea, udon noodles, and of course sake! Their soybean, wheat, and rice are certified organic by JAS(Japan Agricultural Standard), NOP(National Organic Program) and EU organic.

Their sake organic Junmai “Akira” is made with their organic Mitsuhikari rice, which is grown and certified organic in Japan. The name “Akira” is from the name of the chairperosn of Kanazawa Daichi Mr. Akira Imura, who is 68 years old. His farming practice focuses on : safety, affordable prices, and a continuous supply of delicious and stable agricultural farm products. Akira Imura has been farming rice, wheat, soybean, and vegetables for over 50 years in a large area of reclaimed land known as “Kahokugata”, a suburb of Kanazawa city in Ishikawa prefecture. Kanazawa Daichi also produces tofu, miso, and soy sauce all made with their organic ingredients and traditional methods handed down for generations. This is Mr. Akira Imura’s fifty-second year farming rice. Mr. Imura says there is nothing he would change about his life. He continues to grow and harvest rice and keep a strong connection to the true spirit of farming.

Junmai Akira, you will feel the power of pure, natural rice with your very first sip. Quite robust, a touch rugged and with a bitter undertone…. These flavors immediately bring to mind the beauty of a vast Japanese rice field. I highly recommend Akira Sake be served warm, in the range of 98F – 108F. You’ll find the flavor to be very mild and creamy, yet still having a nice bitterness and acidity, much as you would enjoy with a Yamahai or Kimoto style sake. Akira has an exciting, new flavor, but also remains true to the traditional taste of Japanese sake. I want everyone to know…. Akira is one of the best sakes in the world for serving warm!

We had a special party at authentic Japanese restaurant Hakubai New York on February, 3rd. Hakubai was renewed end of January. I love Hakubai, but new Hakubai is soooo beautiful!! Food is wonderful as always, but the atmosphere is brighter and more modern classic now. You have to try!

I produced their first New York tour, and had great tasting events with the farmers in New York. It was unforgettable days! So many people enjoyed and felt their farmer’s spirits!! See the pictures!! Farmer’s spirits made them big smile!!

They are looking for importers and distributors for US market. If you are interested in their products, let them know!