RIHAKU WANDERING POET JUNMAI GINJO SAKE

From Japan's Chugoku region, Rihaku Shuzo crafts their "Wandering Poet" Junmai Ginjo using premium Yamada Nishiki rice—considered the pinnacle of sake rice varieties—grown in the area's mineral-rich soils. This vegan, gluten-free sake (15% ABV) honors Chinese poet Li Po, who reportedly composed a hundred poems after enjoying a bottle of sake. The region's exceptional water quality contributes to its distinctive profile of banana and ripe honeydew notes, supported by clean, crisp acidity that enhances its light-to-medium body. The lingering finish evolves beautifully from juicy fruitiness to subtle herbal nuances, making this versatile sake particularly adept at complementing traditionally wine-challenging vegetables like asparagus and artichoke hearts.