Harushika Chō Karakuchi Junmai [1 Koku - 51]

Harushika Chō Karakuchi Junmai, from Nara. A venerable producer whose name was inspired by the Kasuga-taisha (shrine) (and it is said that one of the family's ancestors was head priest there in the distant past). I love all the lanterns hanging at this shrine, here's a couple of pictures I took in 2006 (R.'s first trip to Japan):

The lanterns of Kasuga-taisha.

Making the acquaintance of one of Nara's sacred deer. After depleting our supply of biscuits, this one attempted to make a meal out of the tires of our rented bicycles.

On to the sake. Vital statistics: SMV +12, acidity 1.6, amino acidity 1.5, and 15.5% abv. Rich, ricey aromas, with a faintly forest-y sourness, like humus and mulch. Like walking through the Nara Kōen after a rainy night. Light to medium-bodied initially, soft velvety entry that transforms into a lightly raspy mid-palate, followed by a pleasingly bitter finish - a salty-sour aftertaste just lingers. A velvet-gloved iron hand, with no hints of malice.

John Gauntner says that one of the most memorable Western food pairings he's ever had is this sake with a bacon and cream sauce over pasta. Must try, and, um, yay, bacon! But, for now, we'll have to make do with 10 pounds of gingko nuts we picked last weekend.