Tenmei Junmai “Orange Label”

The nose on this really cool Junmai is a slick collection of blackberry, peach, apricot, blueberry, and steamed rice aromas. Akebono Shuzo gets big props for taking sake making to the next level using a new spin on a traditional way of making sake. San-Dan-Jikomi is the traditional three-step method to sake brewing, but instead of the same rice in each stage, they use a different rice variety when adding to the tank. First Gohyakumangoku, then Kameno O (for crispness and umami), and then Yume no Kaori (to soften and sweeten the flavor). How cool is that? Soft, clean, and light, medium bodied, layered, buoyant, juicy, fresh, with a fun flow that is plump yet crisp. Look for nectarine, yellow cherry, raspberry, apricot, and dried pear tones with a lovely vein of umami and a quick finish. Smart sake for the smart sake drinker. WORD: Layered WINE: Tannin Reds/Crisp Whites BEER: Crisp Ales FOODS: Sushi, sashimi, yakitori, grilled meats, pizza, tomato salads, fruit and cheese plates, crab, and shrimp dishes.