Discover the Four Bacchus Brands Rated Over 90 by Decanter
In an astonishing turn of events, Japanese sake has received extraordinary acclaim from Decanter, the globally renowned wine authority. Remarkably, four of our sake brands have achieved scores over 90 points – a truly exceptional feat! This achievement marks a pivotal moment where the world has finally recognized the true prowess of Japanese sake.
The allure of sake lies in its diversity and depth. From fruity Ginjo to rich Junmai, the world of sake is infinitely expansive. These sake brands, having met Decanter’s rigorous evaluation criteria, have proven themselves to be of world-class quality.
These highly-rated sake not only pair beautifully with Japanese cuisine but also complement dishes from around the world. You’re sure to find the perfect cup that suits your taste preferences.
Now is your chance to experience the charm of sake that has captivated the world. Visit your local liquor store or specialty shop to seek out these highly-rated brands. Let’s embark on a new flavor adventure!
In an astonishing turn of events, Japanese sake has received extraordinary acclaim from Decanter, the globally renowned wine authority. Remarkably, five of our sake brands have achieved scores over 90 points – a truly exceptional feat! This achievement marks a pivotal moment where the world has finally recognized the true prowess of Japanese sake. (Mr. Bacchus)
Four Fox Sake, Junmai Daiginjo, Japan
Named after the guardian foxes of the Inari Okami, who is the god of rice, the ‘Four Fox’ Junmai (pure rice) Daiginjo is made using snow melt water from Niigata and the Gohyakumangoku rice, known for its large shinpaku (the opaque white part of the rice). It has a glamorous nose of banana and pear candy, in addition to miso and freshly steamed rice. A pure and vinous palate of rice milk, melon and pear, with lemon zests to provide a lift.
Shichiken, Junmai Daiginjo Sake, Japan
Founded in 1850, the Shichiken (meaning ‘seven sages’ in Japanese) brewery uses fresh water from Hakushu to make their Sakes. With a generous nose of citrus, pineapple and ripe melon, the pure rice Daiginjo Sake features a ‘mouthfeel of silk (”絹の味”)’, as the label suggests. It has a sweet yet elegant palate of juicy melon and rice milk, balanced by citrus acids and a umami tone, which follows to the finish.
Tosatsuru, Azure Ginjo Sake, Japan
Bottled in an ocean blue bottle and made using the Yamada Nishiki rice, the Azure Ginjo Sake from Tosatsuru has a vinous nose backed by tropical fruits such as pineapple and mango, in addition to fresh citrus. Melon and steamed rice sweetness is well-balanced with a touch of limey acidity, followed by a savoury, warming finish.
Kinoshita Shuzo, Tamagawa Kinsho ‘Heart of Gold’ Daiginjo
Philip Harper, Japan’s only English toji, or master brewer, is known for championing the cause of the traditional yamahai and kimoto styles, so it is interesting to see that he also makes a mean daiginjo. This is made from Yamada Nishiki rice polished down to 50%, with the usual sweet fruity fragrance – here of fresh, ripe pear. There is a fine richness of texture too, whose steely intensity is supported by a girder of 16.5% alcohol and enhanced by a gentle funky umami note leading to a long and satisfying finish – one that will keep and not fall over.
