Tsukinokatsura Yanagi Junmai Ginjo "Willow Tree" 2025

The nose on this fan favorite brew from Kyoto is a classic collection of Asian pear, blueberry, honeydew, pineapple, grape, lychee, red bean, kiwi, fresh grass, violet, vanilla bean, and sugar cane aromas. How would you like to taste “Kyoto-Style” personified? Made with famously soft Kyoto water, this brew is soft, smooth, fleshy, slippery, water-like, round, gentle, silky, with a medium body, and quick finish. If you like balance in your brew, this is all that and more with a gentle softness that reminds you, “Kyoto is in the house!” Look for apple pear, pineapple, blueberry, mineral water, almond, mochi, sweet rice, oatmeal, cream, pistachio, and sugar cane flavors that are sneakily complex, with a touch of astringency. This brewery has a new importer and we are glad that the “Willow Tree” is back, and at that price-point? Wow! WORD: Kyoto WINE: Soft Reds/Smooth Whites BEER: Smooth Ales FOODS: Sushi, sashimi, French fare, creamy sauces, pasta, cured meats, seafood salads, crab, lobster rolls, and grilled white fish.