Izumibashi Black Dragonfly “Kurotonbo” Kimoto Junmai 1.8L

Brewing by the traditional Kimoto method and aged for 2 years. It's strikingly soft and creamy texture with intense umami and pronounced acidity makes it a perfect partner for rich food.

This is sake made the old way — not out of nostalgia, but conviction. Izumibashi’s Kuro Tonbo is a quiet refusal to modern shortcuts, brewed using the traditional kimoto method that demands time, patience, and trust in the process.

It exists for drinkers who are curious enough to slow down and taste what happens when nothing is rushed.

The experience

Full-bodied and deeply savoury, this sake opens with gentle rice sweetness before unfolding into layers of umami, earthiness, and lactic complexity. There’s a natural richness to the texture — rounded, almost creamy — balanced by a firm, drying finish that keeps everything grounded.

At cooler temperatures, it feels structured and contemplative. Warm it slightly and it softens, revealing more depth and comfort, without losing its backbone.

This is not a light, aromatic sake. It’s a sake with weight, presence, and intent.

Why it’s different

Kimoto brewing is labour-intensive and increasingly rare, relying on natural lactic acid development rather than modern additives. Izumibashi has chosen to preserve this method not as a museum piece, but as a living philosophy.

Kuro Tonbo (“Black Dragonfly”) reflects that mindset perfectly: traditional, uncompromising, and quietly expressive. It’s sake as craft, not convenience — and that perspective aligns closely with why Whiskery exists.

Who this is for (and who it isn’t)

For:

• Sake drinkers ready to explore deeper, savoury styles

• Fans of umami-driven flavours and texture

• Wine or whisky drinkers curious about sake with structure and weight

Not ideal if:

• You prefer light, floral, or highly aromatic sake

• You’re looking for something simple or easy-drinking

How to enjoy it

Versatile across temperatures — enjoy it slightly chilled for structure, or gently warmed to bring out its softer, more comforting side. Excellent with grilled meats, hearty Japanese dishes, or anything rich in umami.

Key details

• Country: Japan

• Producer: Izumibashi Shuzo

• Style: Junmai Kimoto

• Rice: Yamadanishiki (estate-grown)

• Alcohol: 15%

• Bottle size: 1.8L