Rihaku Wandering Poet

Rihaku Wandering Poet is a sake, so it is brewed from rice rather than grapes and has no vintage, tannin or oak. The listing doesn't give a polishing grade, alcohol level or tasting profile, so what follows describes what to expect from a premium-style sake bottled under this name, not measured figures. Sake in this tier usually shows soft, clean fruit such as pear, melon, green apple or white grape, sometimes with a faint floral lift. The body tends to be light to medium and smooth, acidity is gentle, and the finish is short and clean. There is no tannin or oak to grip the palate, and the texture is what carries the drink. Serve it chilled, roughly 8 to 12°C (46 to 54°F), which keeps the aromatics lively without muting them. Straight from a very cold fridge it can taste tight and quiet, so give the bottle ten minutes on the counter. Decanting isn't needed and offers no benefit. For glassware, a small white-wine glass or tulip-shaped stem collects delicate aromas better than a traditional ochoko cup, though a small ceramic cup suits a relaxed, shared pour. At the table, sake of this type works best with food that doesn't overpower it. Sashimi, nigiri, tempura, grilled white fish, steamed shellfish and chicken yakitori with salt are natural matches. It also suits soft cheeses such as fresh goat cheese or mozzarella, and simple salads with citrus dressing. Very spicy, heavily sauced or smoky dishes will tend to drown out its subtle fruit. This is a drink-now bottle. Most sake doesn't improve with cellar age and is best finished within a day or two of opening. Reseal it and keep it refrigerated, away from light and heat, and consume it while the fruit is still fresh.