Tsukasabotan Senchu Hassaku Reika Junmai Nama

This is the Summer version of Tsukasabotan's Senchu Hassaku Junmai. Aging unpasteurized at sub-zero temperatures pulls out an intense, full bodied umami with a cutting, dry finish. Despite its mellow, subdued aroma, I get a generous, strong presence on the mid palate, a sort of dense, bouncy, ricey mouthfeel that feels substantial and satisfying. Reminds me of softly, richly bouncy butter mochi. It's not especially fruity but has some of that green Funaguchi can, apple-banana fun. There's enough fruit here that it feels Summery and nice, but only just enough. 

The finish is ...dry, yes. But it doesn't strike me as aggressive or astringent. Actually, this extra aging it undergoes really makes the whole ride smooth. I'm surprised to say it because I don't always like the other Tsukasabotan's Senchu Hassaku releases. And maybe this is a bit of sake maturity on my part, really noticing the texture here, where 4-5 years ago I just thought it was boring. But I really do like this sake and I think I'll be drinking it a lot this summer. -Nina