Okay, so technically our "Wine of the Weekend" is not a wine. In fact, the production techniques used in sake have more in common with beer than with wine...but the subtleties and nuances of great sake are decidedly more wine-like. Given this and an international focus on the unfolding tragedy in Japan, it seemed only fitting that we pick a product so connected with Japanese culture and refinement.This particular sake is a Honjozo Nigori-sake from the Miyashita Brewery, located in the Okayama Prefecture. The term Honjozo denotes a premium level of sake, and Nigori literally translates as 'unfiltered'. Okayama is known for its abundant sunshine, good water, and most of all for premium rice production. Sakes from Okayama are famous for its elegance and refinement.
America has become one of the most-important export markets for Nigori sake. The cloudy nature of these sakes is due to the fact that the finished product does not undergo filtration...what you see (and drink) is the rice particles leftover after fermentation. Think of it as the lees. These residual solids impart a rich texture and hint of sweetness to the sake.
If you consider yourself a connoisseur of Nigori-sake, you're in for a treat. "Sacred Mist" is easily the finest Nigori available in the U.S. market.
It's a little-known fact that most Nigori actually undergo a rough filtration which removes some of the rice solids. "Sacred Mist" is the only Nigori I know of that sees no filtration. The result is an unctuously rich, incredibly textured sake experience. Available in a 300ml bottle, it is an ideal aperitif, or after-dinner drink.
Item #56196
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