Georgia Asian Times November 15-30, 2013
Page 11
EAT OUT Winter sake recommendations by sake sommelier Norcross, November 8, 2013 — With the weather changes to colder temperature, it is time to soothe the body with a cup of warm sake. Koji Aoto, Certified Sake Sommelier, shared his expertise on several new variety of sake that Atlantans should enjoy this coming winter.
Alcohol content: 15-16% Suggested retail: $32.00 / 720 ml.
Sujin – Junmai Super Dry “God of Water” Produced in Iwate, Tohoku Prefecture. It has a fragrant and extra dry taste. It has more “acidity” and rice flavor. Ideal for pairing with cooked spicy and warm food. Alcohol content: 16.5% Suggested retail: $36.00 / 720 ml.
Kikusui Perfect Snow Originate from Niigata Prefecture, it is 100% unfiltered and has a milky white color reminiscent of pure snow. It has a clean finish that perfectly complement to intense flavors and spicy cuisines. Ideal pairing for sushi, yakitori, BBQ ribs, and spicy Korean tofu stew. This is a perfect substitute for red wine as it goes well with meat dishes. Alcohol content: 21% Suggested retail: $13.00 / 300 ml.
Kubota Sengju Sake Originate from Niigata Prefecture. Natural alcohol is added to achieve its clean and crisp flavor. It has an elegant aroma that is comforting. It is best served chilled to enjoy the clear flavor. However, when it is warmed to about 95F, it evolves to a mellow flavor.
Banzai Bunny Sparkling Sake Originates from Nara Prefecture. The sparking sake comes with natural, white peach and blueberry flavors. It is produced with added fresh fruit juices and no sugar added. A very popular sake among the ladies. A perfect pairing with light snacks and hors d’oeuvre. Alcohol content: 7% Suggested retail: $12.00 / 300 ml.
Nihon Sakari Banshaku Karakuchi Sake Produced in Hyogo Prefecture. With a clever packaging of a small individu-
al cup, this sake is popular for everyday consumption. It has a dry, rich and clean flavor. This is an enjoyable sake with a bowl of hot ramen noodles. Alcohol content: 13.5% Suggested retail: $5.00 / 200 ml.
Koji has a few simple tips on sake: 1. Sake is best consumed while it is fresh. Sake does not age well like wine. 2. Avoid storing sake in direct sunlight or high temperature. 3. Store in a cool dark place. 4. Upon opening, keep a tight lid and store in cold refrigerator. 5. Sake is best consume within three weeks of opening.
6. If leftover in a big bottle, transfer to smaller container of bottles and stored it in cold refrigerator to minimize oxidation.