Dassai 45 Nigori Sake

Dassai 45 Nigori is a cloudy, unfiltered style of sake, so expect a milky, opaque pour with fine rice sediment that settles to the bottom. The "45" in the name conventionally refers to the rice polishing ratio, meaning about 45 percent of each grain remains after milling. That level of polishing usually gives a cleaner, more aromatic profile than a lightly milled rice. The bottle is listed with a United States origin and a Massachusetts appellation. No ABV is given here, so check the label for the exact strength. Nigori sakes in this style usually taste softer and rounder than clear sake. Expect a creamy, medium-to-full body, a gentle sweetness, and aromas of steamed rice, melon, pear and sometimes a faint coconut or lychee note. Acidity is typically low to moderate, which keeps the sweetness from feeling heavy. There are no tannins and no oak, so the finish tends to be short to medium and lightly chalky from the suspended rice particles. Before opening, turn the bottle gently upside down once or twice to blend the settled solids. If you want a clearer, lighter pour, let it rest and decant the upper layer instead. Serve it well chilled, around 7 to 10°C (45 to 50°F). Warmer temperatures can make the sweetness more pronounced and the texture heavier, and colder service mutes the fruit. Decanting is unnecessary. A small white wine glass or a tulip-shaped sake glass concentrates the aroma better than a traditional flat cup, and a small tumbler also works for casual pours. At the table, the sweetness and creamy texture suit spicy dishes, since the sugar and body soften chili heat. Good matches include Thai green curry, Korean fried chicken, spicy tuna rolls and Sichuan-style dumplings. Soft cheeses, fresh fruit and light desserts such as coconut rice pudding or mango also work well. Very delicate raw fish can be overwhelmed by the richness, so keep it for bolder or fried dishes. This is a drink-now bottle. Nigori sake is not made for cellaring, and its fresh rice and fruit character fades with time. Keep it refrigerated and upright. After opening, reseal it and finish it within a few days for the best flavor.