This is my second time trying Mount Asama sake since receiving their ASTERISM last year. I clearly remember how delicious that one was—crystal clear, with a fresh, modern feel yet somehow evoking the earth and grass, a taste that felt deeply natural. Lately, modern dry sakes are proliferating, and many are of astonishing quality, so I'm looking forward to this one too.
Naturally, most sake brewed with Hitogokochi rice comes from Nagano Prefecture, but this one proves that Gunma rice can be exceptionally delicious too. It's a textbook example of what happens when a skilled brewery uses superb rice. The umami is solid, and you might be momentarily surprised by its extreme dryness? That satisfying, clean umami dominates for the first two seconds or so.
Then comes the incredible sharpness. And it's not just sharpness for sharpness' sake; it cuts cleanly. From three seconds after you take a sip, it remains transparent. Crystal clear all the way through. Wow, this is way too delicious. Modern dry sakes seem to pair well with almost any dish. This one covers everything from light meals to rich ones. I was moved! I'll definitely be buying this again next year!
2025-065
drinking at home
Purchased from a sake brewery tour during a trip to Kusatsu.
It seems to be of a spec only available at the sake brewery.
The Asamayama sake was rather dry and refreshing, but this one was gorgeous, with a sweet and umami taste of rice.
This sake is made with rice and water from the foot of Mt.
It is refreshing, but has a touch of sweetness in the back.
The label is very beautiful.
Obtained at the Asama Sake Brewery Tourist Center!
2,420 yen (tax included)
Sake given to me by a person in Gunma at home. It has a ginjo aroma with a strong sense of acidity and rice flavor. It is made from 100% shinko produced in Naganoharacho, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture. Polishing ratio 50%, alcohol content 15%. Serve with cucumbers.
