Hojo Biden, Yamahai Junmai Sake 'Pastoral Beauty', NV (720ml)

This is something different: a yamahai junmai sake from Mii no Kotobuki, a respected brewery in Fukuoka on the island of Kyushu, made to stand up to the rich local cuisine. Brewed with Yamada Nishiki rice and the traditional yamahai method, which builds higher acidity and savory depth, it is then bottle-aged a couple of years before release so the flavors mellow and knit together. The result is earthy, savory and faintly sweet, with a fuller body and gentle umami. Serve it lightly chilled or at room temperature; the 720ml format is perfect for the table.