True Horoscope – Chinese New Year of the Pig 2019
I never know what to call this Chinese New Year because it’s the Year of the Pig! Pig doesn’t sound cool like Year of the Boar or Year of the Wild Hog. But that’s what the websites are saying; so welcome to the Year of Porky the Pig! Nope, that sounds terrible... Year of the Pig it is!
The Pig, it was once said, is the last of the 12 zodiac animals, because of timing! Huh? Lore details how the Jade Emperor wanted to throw a large party, so he invited many different creatures. He did so, because he wanted to create an “order” for the zodiac and he said the order would be determined by who showed up and when! As one might predict the rat showed up first, because rats like to party! Then came the others in a steady stream. The ox, the tiger, the rabbit etc. Finally, and well after the others arrived for the party the pig showed up. “Pig” the Jade Emperor asked, “Why are you late and why are you last?” The pig grabbed his glass of wine and looked the Emperor in the eyes and calmly stated, “Because I overslept.”
Of course there are other stories as to why the pig was last including the one about the wolf destroying his house, and he had to repair and fix his dwelling before setting out to the party! I kind of like the pig being a “pig” and prefer the gluttonous response of oversleeping. That’s cool!
What is a pig according to the Chinese Zodiac, and what does that have to do with sake? Patience pal! We will get there. But for now think about this: “Pigs have beautiful personalities and are blessed with good fortune in life,” according to a famous Chinese Zodiac website. “Their chubby faces and big ears are signs of good fortune,” and thank god for that says the guy who has packed on a few lbs. What follows is my best attempt to weave your upcoming year in drinking sake to the Year of the Pig!
Personality and Characteristics
“Pigs might not stand out in a crowd. But they are very realistic. Others may be all talk and no action. Pigs are the opposite. Though not wasteful spenders, they will let themselves enjoy life. They love entertainment and will occasionally treat themselves. They are a bit materialistic, but this is motivation for them to work hard. Being able to hold solid objects in their hands gives them security.”
Pigs Would Like: Born “Muroka Nama Genshu”
Born is perfect for a Pig, because it is quietly one of the most unique sake in the store. It is the “Anti-Daiginjo” because it is so flavorful in another sense, even though it is a Junmai Daiginjo. It is very unique and not to be missed.
Born is perfect for a Pig, because it is quietly one of the most unique sake in the store. It is the “Anti-Daiginjo” because it is so flavorful in another sense, even though it is a Junmai Daiginjo. It is very unique and not to be missed.
Occupation and Business
“Pigs are gentle and rarely lose their temper. Even when they do, it’s never a dramatic commotion. They’ll always try to compromise and settle things quickly. Because their goal in life is for everyone to live in harmony, they are suitable for careers related to charity and fundraisers. They are also very tolerant and understanding. If someone makes a mistake, they’ll try to help the person fix it. They are patient and want the best for everyone. This makes them great teachers and coaches.”
This gentle Junmai Daiginjo is perfect for the very balanced Pig. It is whisper soft, and drinks like a dream or should I say it drinks like perfect harmony in a glass?
Health and Lifestyle
“Pigs mostly have a great build and a resilient body. They are always spirited, as if they will never run out of energy. Their natural health is something Pigs are proud of. But sometimes they can be overconfident and overlook some minor symptoms. If neglected for too long, even the smallest things can become grave.”
Pigs Would Like: Tonoike Bo Tokubetsu Junmai I love this! Pigs have great bodies! And yes pigs are spirited, so they would love a sake that has killer body and is very spirited! This brew from Tonoike Shuzo is full-bodied but very lively, which is very cool because the deep flavors actually flutter in your palate!
Luck and Love for 2019
“The love forecast for Pigs is also pretty unremarkable for 2019. It seems that while this is not the year for true romance, there will be plenty of enjoyable moments and new prospects during this year. However, it is important to be observant as these opportunities are meant to teach you a lesson about what is and isn’t important in a suitor. This will not be a transitional year for Pigs, and it is best to try and “stick it out” in situations if at all possible. While that can be terribly frustrating, try to remember that a key element to utilizing your luck is timing. Next year will bear good fruit for Pigs, but the time isn’t right to harvest the fruits of your labor.”
Pigs Would Like: Takenotsuyu “Moon Mountain Dew”
Basically it sounds like Pigs need to gut this year out and wait for next year! That sucks, but it requires balance to “stick it out.” And why not find balance in a type of sake that is not that well-known for good balance. Unpasteurized sakes are had to get that well known balanced feeling, but not all namas are equal! Moon Mountain Dew is the libation that screams balance and should be a Pig’s best friend this year.