The kimoto method shows itself, as usual, with creamy textural notes of vanilla rice pudding, delicate nutmeg and cinnamon, and apple tart with a silky, dry-yet-fruity, medium-to-full body and a smooth, resonant finish. Yamagata style is still evident with notes of papaya, plantain, and grassy earth on the finish. Excellent complexity and depth-- a really underrated choice on my shelves, often looked over because of its old school label.
Accolades:
- 2012 BTI World Wine Championships Gold Medal 91pt
- International Wine Challenge Sake Brewery of The Year 2018
Stats:
- CLASS: JUNMAI
- BREWERY: TOHOKU MEIJO
- REGION: TOHOKU
- PREFECTURE: YAMAGATA
- ABV: 15-16%
- SMV: +2
- Acid Degree: 1.4
- Rice Polished: 60%
- Type of rice: Miyamanishiki
- Best Served: CHILLED, WARM
The light aroma from this sake has a refreshing appeal, and its subtle Kimoto body enhances the taste of foods. Hatsumago Junmai starts with a gentle light and clean flavor, followed soon after by a more intricate flavor that spreads across the palate with an exhilarating finish. Beautiful with anything creamy: any cream sauce, cheesy or nutty pesto, etc.