Kenbishi ”Mizuho” (17.5% alc – aged 2 years and more) – Yamada Nishiki Special A

This sake has a straw color with pale golden highlights. It is clear and bright. The first nose is fresh, spicy, and peppery with notes of candied lemon, candied citron, and light soy sauce. The second nose opens with more subtlety, delicacy, and umami notes of meat juice, puffed rice, and fresh/cooked apple. The palate is fresh and round on the attack with good acidity and minerality. There are straightforward notes of apple, reduced soy sauce, cooked rice, and root vegetables. The finish is mouthwatering, saline, and with an almost minty freshness that is very long and intense. There are few aromas but plenty of textures with umami and a spicy, almost chili-like from the white pepper. The finish is clear and crystalline, with a hint of savory and lemon juice on the finish.