Kariho Rock Oyster Lovers Junmai 720ml

Yohei Ito, President of Akita Seishu is obsessed with oysters and created this sake in close consultation with oyster professionals. This sake is designated Junmai but could just as easily be called Tokubetsu Junmai due to its 60% milling and exquisite brewing. The nose is slightly chalky with a hint of an approaching storm. A clean, easy drinking medium dry palate. Notes of lemon, apple, underripe rockmelon and lemon myrtle with firm acidity and a well integrated 15.8% ABV.

So how does it taste with oysters?

The oysters grown in Akita are closest to Tasmanian Pacific oysters and we found the briny character of the oyster enhanced the citrus notes in the sake and after each sip the palate was rearing to go for the next oyster. We found the sake after each oyster slightly softer and silkier.

We also tried Oyster Lovers with some Sydney Rocks. The sake worked equally as well with local Sydney oysters, taming the iodine character and creating a well integrated match. We found the addition of lemon/lime or a classic mignonette made with sherry vinegar further enhanced the match. Acidity can have an adverse affect on wine but no such adversity with sake.

The verdict was this is an amazing sake to enjoy with all styles of oyster especially with a side of beer battered fish and chips.

Goodbye Champagne and Oysters, you have met your match.