Hatsumago, “The First Grandchild” is Junmai Kimoto by Yamagata Prefecture’s Tohoku Meijo. The first smell is slightly floral and pleasant. This is followed by a taste that is smooth, slightly dry, sweet and fruity without being over powering. However, the smoothness is mask by a slight tail on the back end. This is a sake should be served chilled and can be serve with most food.

720ml $20  SMV +3.0   Acidiy 1.3

Kurosawa or “Black River’ is Junmai grade sake made in Nagano, Japan.  This inexpensive sake has smooth character and with lots of earth tones and a hint of oak flavor.   Its is a dry sake and has a bit of a bite on the back end, so it is best to drink with food that has  rich flavors and possible a little greasy to cover the bite.  Grilled chickens or steaks would be a good choice.   Generally a  good flavor for a cheap price.

300ml $7.00   Rating +2.0   Acidity 1.5