洌  純 米 大 吟 醸

Retsu “winter spring”, a secondary label by Kojima Sohonten that aims to create a clear and refreshing style of dry sake for the experienced drinker in Yamagata. The genre of dry sake, or Karakuchi is complex, its flavors often subtle, herbal and clear. Retsu Junmai Daiginjo is an advanced karakuchi, unlike most other dry sake we have tasted. It's a sake that imparts relaxation, contemplation, and perhaps images of a partially frozen, winter spring.

Yamada Nishiki sake rice gives this Junmai Daiginjo sake a higher acidity and sharper taste than Retsu Junmai. It is as if you are getting closer to the essence of Retsu, in which the cold notes and the mineral purity are fully released. A refined dryness reminiscent of that found in premium gin. An experience that we have not tried with any other sake.

Tasting notes: The aroma is sweet and mildly fruity. The color in the glass has a faint golden tone that makes you think of maturation. Transparent purity in the mouth. A wealth of spicy, cool notes overlap, as well as hints of English licorice. The high viscosity coats the mouth and gives a long lingering finish.

Food pairing: We recommend tasting this sake without food the first time to enjoy the complexity as it is. Next, serve it with white fish such as hake or halibut. You can also consider a creamy cheese such as brie or camembert, that will complement the clear sharpness of Retsu Junmai Daiginjo.

Drinking temperature: The brewery recommends 11 degrees, as this is the temperature of their well all year round. We like to pour Retsu Junmai Daiginjo at a slightly warmer temperature of around 16 degrees, or room temperature. This authentic Yamagata sake is best enjoyed in a small white wine glass, to bring the aroma and to see the beautiful color.

• Volume: 720ml
• Alcohol: 16%
• Degree of polishing: 50%
• Rice variety: Koji rice: Dewasansan (Yamagata pref.) - Kake rice: Yamada Nishiki (Hyogo pref.)
• Yeast type: Yamagata KA

Brewery: Kojima Sohonten, Yamagata Prefecture