Asahi Shuzo Dassai '23' Junmai Daiginjo Sake - 300 ml

Produced by Asahi Shuzo, Dassai 23 (Ni-wari San-bun) is a world-renowned icon of the "polishing race," where breweries compete to reach the lowest possible rice polishing ratio. Launched in 1992, it was the first sake to achieve a 23% polishing ratio, meaning 77% of each Yamada Nishiki rice grain is painstakingly removed over seven days to leave only the starchiest white core. It is a "People’s Choice" favorite and was famously selected by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe as a gift for official state banquets.

Description

This ultra-premium sake is crystalline and elegant, with a slightly higher viscosity than standard brews. The nose is a sophisticated "bouquet of luxury," featuring well-defined aromas of muscat grapes, fresh-cut pineapple, wild flowers, and honeydew melon. On the palate, it is exceptionally silky and weightless, offering a delicate honey-like sweetness and flavors of white peach, pear, and a hint of vanilla. Despite its luscious fruitiness, it maintains a clean, ethereal structure with refreshing acidity and a persistent, mineral finish. ABV 16%.

Food Pairing

Dassai 23 is widely considered the ultimate "sipping sake," but its purity also makes it a brilliant companion for delicate, high-end cuisine. It is a flawless match for premium sashimi (especially fatty tuna or scallop), raw oysters, and lightly poached shellfish. Its unique acidity also allows it to bridge into Western cuisine, pairing beautifully with mild cheeses like Parmesan, creamy pasta, or chicken with white wine sauce. To fully experience its complex aromatics, serve it slightly chilled (10–12°C) in a small white wine glass rather than a traditional ceramic cup.