Dassai 45 Junmai Daiginjo Sake 300ml

Dassai is made at Asahi Shuzo, located in Yamaguchi prefecture in the southwest of Japan. The name means ‘otter festival’, as apparently the local otters in the local river appeared to lay out the fish they had caught as if they were having a party. The brewery’s motto is every bit as endearing as their name: “there is no reason for us to craft sake unless it’s super delicious.” As a result, they produce only super premium sake of Junmai Daiginjo level, the most refined sake grade there is. Using only the best Yamada Nishiki (considered the king of sake rice) polished up to incredible levels, Dassai’s beautifully crafted sakes regularly win prizes at international competitions. They are to sake what the First Growths are to the fine wine world.

Dassai 45 Junmai Daiginjo Sake is named after the polishing ratio number – in this case 45%, because 55% of each rice grain is gently milled away. This polishing unlocks all the sweet fruity nuances that can often be overwhelmed by some of the more umami and funky notes of less refined rice. Expect almost ethereal aromas of honeydew melon, mango sorbet, pear, green apple, pineapple, gooseberry and lime, plus a filigree texture, a dry finish and a delicious umami depth. Elegant, airy and poised, it has a delicate sweetness and a glacial cleanness.

For those new to sake, and particularly for those who are already fans of crisp white wine, there’s no better place to start your journey than this. Best served slightly chilled and enjoyed with sashimi, sushi, tempura, ceviche, aguachile, fruit sorbet, tropical macarons or a light cheesecake.