Kawatsuru Junmai "Crane of Paradise"

The nose on this brew made with Yamadanishiki brewing rice is a gentle collection of pear, apple, honey, and steamed rice. There is not a lot of sake from Kagawa Prefecture, so this sake does this small production area proud. Of course, it’s a tribute brew to the local river cranes that symbolize longevity! And who doesn’t want sake longevity? Rich, round, and bright, with a hint of tingle, this brew is smooth with a good solid structure that appeals to big backbone wine drinkers. Look for sweet tea, mint, apple, honeydew melon, white peach, berries, and stone fruit flavors that glide with confidence and a little zesty play. The label is old school, but this drinks like a new school Junmai with a spritziness, solid body, and a little weight to the brew. WORD: Longevity WINE: Deep Reds/Bright Whites BEER: Zesty Ales FOODS: Salty and savory, izakaya fare, grilled chicken and fish, sushi, vinegar based fare.