Hirotogawa Junmai Daiginjo

The nose on this new store offering is a gorgeous collection of melon, grape, honey, lemongrass, parmesan rind, violet, and finger lime aromas. We’ve been waiting for this sake to enter the True Sake universe, because it defines a term that we jokingly trademarked called “Rich-Lite.” It is such a good example of full-bodied brew that actually drinks lean and delicate. Round, clean, and crisp with a little astringency, it is light, but with richness to it… Rich-Lite. It’s that really cool combination of being complex and extremely drinkable, almost easy. How did they do that? Look for pear compote, green melon, crisp apple, powdered sugar, Pixy Stix, spearmint, mochi, fennel, and a touch of banana and Muscat flavors that gently balance with a departing umami kiss. Are you ready to get bedazzled by Rich-Lite sake? WORD: Rich-Lite WINE: Complex Reds/Crisp Whites BEER: Crisp Ales FOODS: Sushi, sashimi, shellfish, white fish carpaccio, yakitori, dashi-based dishes, tamago, tofu fare, and avocado salads.