Akabu Junmai

The nose on this cult favorite sake has steamed rice, corn, persimmon, peach, sweet carrots, and citrus aromas. Sixth Generation Toji Ryunosuke Furudate purposely doesn’t give out technical specs, because he simply wants you to not geek out and “just drink the sake.” That’s pretty funny in an industry where we try to know everything, and sometimes forget to simply enjoy a brew. Light, silky, gentle, and clean, this sake is very mischievous because it drinks very easily, but it has so much going on. “Drinkable” is not a bad word in the sake world, but it has a negative connotation in that it could mean it’s basic. This Junmai is anything but basic as it has whispers of phantom-like qualities that drink so gently and balanced. Look for hints of grapefruit, blood orange, cucumber, sweet veggies, citrus, and blueberry flavors in a supremely silky fluid. A mid-sized glass finds peak balance. There is a very unique creaminess that emerges as the sake warms. It’s also a great brew for warming that drinks slightly fruity and clean. WORD: Umami WINE: Pinot Noir/White Burgundy BEER: Creamy Ales FOODS: Gentle cuisines, crab, shellfish, grilled fish, tofu dishes.