Ryujin Junmai Daiginjo Genshu "Bull Rider"
The nose on this is a rodeo collection of pear, apple, mango, sweet pea, plum, berry, and a touch of anise aromas. Say hello to a very solid and user-friendly premium sake that is thick but not cloying, fruity but not sweet, higher in alcohol but not boozy! This "Bull Rider" sits in the saddle well, and appeals to those who like full-bodied sake that drinks balanced and beefy. Look for cooked pear tart, apple pie, berry, honey, watermelon, banana bread, and mineral flavors. Rich, round, and fleshy, there is an appealing chewiness and viscosity that plays well in a white wine glass. Good chilled, but it also opens up with a unique tangerine expression as the fluid comes into room temperature. The Ryujin Shuzo motto is, “Brewed with love,” and you can certainly taste that in this solid food-pairing Junmai Daiginjo that has a very hidden 18% alcohol content. WORD: Solid WINE: Big Reds/Fat Whites BEER: Stouts FOODS: The kitchen sink, everything!