Mutsu Hassen Daiginjo

The nose on this stupendous Daiginjo from the legendary Aomori brewery is a fantastic collection of honeydew, lime blossom, vanilla, berry, peach, Mandarin orange, blueberry pie, and honey aromas. When you see this label, you know that some serious brewing technique went into this sake that is made with local Aomori brewing rice milled to 40%. Silky, juicy, slippery, delicate spritz, and medium-bodied, this sake drinks with layers of feelings and flavors that make you stand up and take notice. Look for melon, pear, apple compote, pineapple, honey tea, tangerine, cream, and vanilla flavors that roll through the palate with a quick umami tingle finish. A masterclass in layered sake that speaks to all sake drinkers who appreciate depth and complexity in a refreshing package. WORD: Layered WINE: Complex Reds/Creamy Whites BEER: Creamy Ales FOODS: Steamed Chilean sea bass in ginger, sushi, sashimi, lobster, crab, caviar, foie gras, and champagne fare.