Shinano Nishiki Junmai “Wasanbon”

The nose on this very cool Junmai is a wild collection of maple syrup, crème brûlée, cashew butter, pecan, burnt caramel, cacao, leather, and cheesy aromas. This brew is another reminder that sake is awesome! Made with Miyamanishiki milled to 91% - that’s right they only remove 9% of each grain – behold a sake that drinks almost refreshingly light for so much going on, which makes this one of our favorite “work of brewing art” sakes. Rich, round, soft, plump, medium-bodied, and smooth, it drinks very gently with an outstanding savory and umami play. And talk about a truckload of flavors. Look for vanilla bean, bread pudding, crème brûlée, honey milk, toasted caramel, white asparagus, pecorino cheese, soy sauce, dashi broth, Whoppers, and pine flavors that drink like silken tofu; soft and silky with a earthy finish. WORD: 91% WINE: Pinot Noir/Creamy Whites BEER: Belgians FOODS: Rich and robust fare, street foods, beach fare, International Spice, rich sashimi, pastas, and steaks.