洌  純 米

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 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.

Tasting notes:  The scent is mildly sweet with a touch of fruit and rice, but theres also an earthy note to the sweetness, reminiscent of oysters. In the mouth the texture has density, although not heavy; its a chewy texture with reference to rice and food. The myriad of flavors spands over recognizable Junmai Ginjo fruitiness to a peppery dry feeling that slowly builds, nip by nip. The complexity of the taste is impressive, it engages the mind and body from start to finish. It’s insistent but also incredibly refreshing, leaving a cooling feeling on the palate. The long clean finish of Retsu Junmai is an aesthetic accent telling of the exceptional quality of spring water used by Kojima Sohonten, sourced from nearby mount Azuma.

Food pairing: Drink Retsu as it is, or serve it mild flavors in cold soba noodles. Fresh flavors with umami, in Oysters and Prosciutto will also be an instant match with this complex Junmai sake

Drinking temperature: The brewery recommends 11 degrees, as this is the temperature of their well all year round. We like to pour Retsu Junmai at a slightly warmer temperature of around 16 degrees, or room temperature. This authentic Yamagata sake is best enjoyed in a Guinomi (sake cup). If you want to focus on the aroma, a small glass of white wine is ideal.

•  Volume: 720ml
•  Alcohol: 16%
•  Polishing degree: 60%
•  Rice variety: Yamgata harvested sake rice
•  Yeast type: Yamagata KA

Brewery: Kojima Sohonten, Yamagata Prefecture