Taiten Shiragiku-Nishiki Tokubetsu Junmai

Over 10 years and from only 55 grains, the rice-obsessed owner of Shiragiku Shuzo in Okayama resurrected Shiragikumai.

A fascinating, Omachi-like character to this incredibly unique rice. The aroma is mild, but the flavor is potent and pure, with bright vegetable and herbaceous notes when initially poured (chilled). The finish is textural and velvety, evoking one of my favorite sake (Chiyonosono) and when the glass has rested a half hour, the temp approaching 65, additional notes of toasted grain and nuts, buckwheat soba and root vegetables, come out. An exciting, evolving brew with a lot to say.