“We opened the Amabuki Himawari on a warm evening in Ojai, sitting out beneath the old olive trees behind a friend’s house. H had picked up a simple spread from the Sunday farmers market—grilled sourdough brushed with olive oil, and a salad of wild arugula and roasted golden beets, topped with crushed pistachios. Clean flavors, with just that hint of bitterness and earth.
The sake was bright and crisp, as expected from Amabuki’s sunflower yeast, with a faintly nutty undertone that played nicely with the pistachios. There’s a clarity to it, like cool water running over stones, but it doesn’t quite linger in the memory. We both enjoyed it—it’s undeniably well-made—but found ourselves talking more about the evening air than the sake itself. I wouldn’t hesitate to drink it again, especially on a warm day, but I doubt we’ll go out of our way to seek it. Some things are better when they find you.”
“Wow! This may be my new favorite. Here in South Florida, I enjoy cold sake and this just delivers everything I want: lovely fragrance, full body, dry. Highly recommend this one!”
“This sake grew on me over the month I had this bottle open. There are notes of grain, umami, and a slight salinity when first opened, but I was able to find melon, pear, and fruit later on. This sake is perfect to pair with a soft cheese or nuts. Very interesting brew.”
“Delicious nama junmai ginjo .... smooth, dry, great balance of acidity with a touch of sweetness. Absolutely wonderful when served cold, and matched well with ginger-pork stirfry! Definitely going to get another bottle of this wonderful sake!”
