Virtual Saké Tasting

We got to do another virtual tasting last night: this time it was hosted by La Bodega featuring saké from Saké One, down in Oregon. We were joined by Marcus Pakiser & Midori Nakazawa who both took turns talking to us as we sipped our saké.

Midori took us on a tour of the brewery, stepping us through the process turning rice into saké. She did an amazing job considering that she was by herself so had to talk while walking and operating her phone so we could see all the equipment. It was hard to hear her, however. Not only is a brewery a loud place, but she speaks with quite the accent and I could not see her face to read her lips. So I probably only got about half of what she said. Bryan had to do a lot of explaining along the way. Periodically throughout her presentation, Marcus would interrupt to explain something a bit more in-depth, or ask her to repeat herself. I’m not sure exactly where he was: I could see behind him that he was at his home – but I don’t know where “home” is for him.

The saké we got to sample was all from Saké One:

Momokawa Diamond: their flag-ship product, medium-dry and crisp with a balance of soft water notes and fall flavors of apple and pear. Melon, and mild anise on the nose.

Momokawa Organic Junmai:  Notes of refreshing melon and lime combine with delicate pineapple and cola flavors.

Yomi Junmai Ginjo: Refreshing and hedonistic with delicious notes of melon, cherry, red berries, light cream, and subtle mochi. Medium body with purity of flavor and plenty of attitude.

The saké was all good – but we liked the Yomi Junmai Ginjo best.