Daishichi The Gate

One of the highlights this week was a tasting of the release of a new sake called The Gate made in collaboration by top sommelier Xavier Thuizet and Daishichi sake brewery in Nihonmatsu, Fukushima. Xavier san presented the same sake at three temperatures and in three different Riedel wine glasses. Fascinating tasting three expressions of the same nihonshu. Easy to imagine the different dishes that could be paired with one bottle.

Some of my favorite quotes from Xavier san:

“The sommelier is a prescriber of an unprecedented experience.” And that as sommeliers we should “stimulate the curiosity of the guest”.

Served cold in a sauvignon blanc glass the sake was fresh and delicate and would be lovely with spring vegetables. Served warm in a pinot noir glass and it was “like pajamas in winter” and calls for autumn dishes like earthy mushrooms and grilled meats. Fascinating! Grateful to be included in the seminar.