Harushika Junmai Daiginjo "Spring Deer"

The tremendous nose on this superb Daiginjo is a vast array of watermelon, strawberry, banana, vanilla, and steamed koji (sweet) rice. This sake is simply a flavor rush with an ending of hush! Talk about a juicy and fruity brew that drinks fat and fun. I mean come on! How is this sake made of just rice and water? With layers and layers of strawberry, melon, and mild banana flavors that drink chewy and ripe, you'd think it would be goopy and sweet. But it isn't, and actually has a dramatically quiet and disappearing finish. Truly a sake work of art! The vein of watermelon hints are classic. WORD: Juicy WINE: Fruity reds/Chardonnay BEER: Pale and fruity ales FOODS: Sashimi, tofu, poultry, soy dishes.