Suien Aigamo Junmai Ginjo Genshu Sake, 18% vol.

Aigamo means duck in English, and perhaps this fine tropical wine should therefore be called Duck Sake? The rice (the local Hitogokochi variety) for this genshu is cultivated using a special method in which ducks are allowed into the rice paddies to eat pests like slugs and simultaneously fertilize the rice. This is a relatively elaborate process that creates a natural cycle and makes it possible to avoid the use of chemicals. Its rich umami flavor and higher acidity make this sake a very suitable accompaniment to heartier dishes, such as meat or stews. Even though this sake has a very strong and full flavor (with notes of yogurt and rice), it is not overpowering and perfectly represents the style of the Suien brewery. Suien - `Drunken Garden` - is a traditional brewery with over 200 years of history from Nagano Prefecture. The small town of Azumino is famous for some of the best wasabi in Japan. Wasabi only grows in very clear, fresh water, and that`s exactly what Suien uses to brew his sake.