山形正宗 樽酒 法國Sauternes 貴腐甜酒木桶熟成 貴釀酒 2017

【Yamagata Masamune Taruzake Kijoshu 2017 Sauternes】

This special “Barrel Sauternes” from Yamagata Masamune is built on a kijoshu base, then matured in oak barrels that previously held French Sauternes, the famed noble‑sweet wine from Bordeaux. The result is a sake that layers the delicacy of Yamagata Masamune with the depth and perfume of dessert‑wine cask ageing, giving it an almost wine‑like, Western elegance. It retains the finesse of a Junmai Ginjo‑class core, while extended maturation in barrel draws out a long, graceful finish.

On the nose, expect aromas of dried apricot, honey, ripe yellow stone fruits, vanilla and gentle oak, suggesting a meeting point between Sauternes and a softly matured whisky, yet carried on the supple, understated lines of sake rather than spirit. The palate opens with smooth, rounded sweetness and layered rice umami, then gradually reveals vanilla, toasted notes and a touch of delicate spice from the barrel. Acidity is soft and the alcohol is well‑integrated, so the overall impression is rich, mellow and refined – a sake made for slow, contemplative sipping rather than casual drinking.

Serving temperature
Best enjoyed at around 10–14°C, lightly chilled or cool room temperature, to show both the aromatic lift and the barrel‑aged detail. Slightly warmer, closer to room temperature, further emphasizes the honeyed and woody tones and makes it feel very much like a digestif.

Food pairing
Excellent as an after‑dinner sake with nuts, dried fruit, hard cheeses or blue cheese. It also pairs beautifully with dishes and desserts that have a touch of sweetness or creaminess – think duck with fruit sauce, foie gras, crème brûlée or baked cheesecake – where the honeyed, oaky notes in the sake can echo and elevate the flavours on the plate.

【Producer】Mitobe Shuzo
【Classification】Kijoshu (barrel‑aged in French Sauternes casks)
【Volume】720ml
【Rice】100% Japanese rice
【Polishing ratio】Not disclosed
【Alcohol】15%