We finally have it - the highly touted sake brewery from Ishikawa - Tengumai! 👺

Shata Shuzo was founded in 1823 and is located close to Kanazawa and the Sea of Japan. The primary brand name is “Tengumai” with means Dancing Tengu. Tengu are creatures of Folklore in Japan. The idea is that after drinking their sake, even the Tengu would want to dance.

1. Tengumai Junmai Daiginjo 50 (U.P. $85): Aged for a very short time compared to the rest of the Tengumai Sake line, Tengumai 50 Junmai Daiginjo comes out as full bodied and refreshing. Excellent bottle for the money and one of the best buys in this price range. It is a superb bottle with sushi and seafood with nice acidity and sweetness that mirrors that of sushi rice or something like a Kumamoto Oyster.  Semi-dry and excellent chilled or at room temperature.           
   
   
2. Tengumai Junmai Yamahai (U.P. $70): The seemingly effortless harmony so characteristic of Yamahai sake is ever present in Tengumai's masterful brew. Gorgeous pale straw pour, with a funky mushroom nose to match the acidic, dry and earthy first impression. While savouring the buttery mouthfeel, one may even notice hints of walnut bread and honeyed mead, so keep your eyes peeled. When chilled, the more floral notes come into play. An absolute pleasure to drink at any and all temperatures.