This very unique nama (unpasteurized) honjozo (alcohol added) sake reminds me of a Mosel riesling: light and ethereal, guided by floral, mineral, and lemon-lime notes. I'm reminded that it's sake by a soft, cheesecake-like, unctuous umami on the mid-palate. The finish is short and crisp, with shibumi (astringency) creating structure. Despite its light and lifted character, this sake continues to show well after 2 weeks in the fridge, although it loses some aromatics and the palate softens.
Plays beautifully with anything citrus, jalapeno, or herbal-- think of it as behaving like a gin martini. Pair with Yuzu kosho flavored savory snacks, herbed cream cheese and toasts, fennel slaw, Kachka's Herring Under a Fur Coat, or a bowl of lemony olives.
Stats:
- Location: Akita City
- Bottling: Mid-2022
- Rice: Gin no Sei (Akita)
- Polish: 65%
- Yeast: Akita Konno No. 12
- Recommended serving temperature: Ice cold, lightly chilled, or warm. The brewery recommends ice cold, but unlike many other nama it also does well warm, which brings out the soft texture and nutty notes.