Kuro Kabuto Muroka Junmai Daiginjo “Samurai Armor Helmet”

This sake is unique in that they produce it using a black koji mold, which is used more for shochu production. The nose on this vividly floral sake is made-up of sweet rice, clover honey, apple, and peach skin aromas. Talk about a “smooth” operator! This un-charcoal filtered brew is round, fat, and juicy and each sip is like a velvet ride of gentle flavors on a viscous fluid. Behold sweet rice, honey, rich berries, and a tingle of citrus flavors that go with the smooth and full-feeling flow. There is a solid acidity play that ebbs the fruitiness factor and the result is a firm flavor-forward sake with a whisper departure. Warmed in the glass brings forth more acidity. WORD: Smooth WINE: Bordeaux/Chardonnay BEER: Creamy Ales FOODS: Complex cuisines, salty and savory dishes, clean sushi/sashimi, cheese plates.