Norman

9.2

Houou Biden (鳳凰美田) Hiyaoroshi

Brewery: Kobayashi Shuzo, Oyama, Tochigi, Japan
Classification: Junmai Ginjo
Style: Hiyaoroshi (pasteurized once, summer-matured, autumn release)
Rice: Gohyakumangoku (Nanto, Toyama)
Polishing: 55%
ABV: 16%
Bottle: 720ml
Importer: Sake Suki (Bridgeport, PA)

The seasonal autumn release, rested through summer and bottled without the second pasteurization. The brewery describes a refined aroma, gentle sweetness reminiscent of wasanbon sugar and soft umami. Suitable chilled or gently warmed.

Tasted at Sushi Kinsen, Redwood City, 10/24/2026. We went with this bottle. Delightful.
— 7 days ago

Norman

9.4

Ohmine 3 Grain Aiyama — 94/100

Brewery: Ohmine Shuzo (大嶺酒造), Mine, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Classification: Junmai Daiginjo specification
Rice: Aiyama (愛山)
Rice polishing: 50%
ABV: 15%
SMV: Not published
Acidity: Not published
Water: Benten spring water, Akiyoshidai limestone plateau
Bottle: 720 ml
Importer: Sake Suki, Bridgeport, Pennsylvania
Purchase: True Sake, $68
Bottling date: Unknown

Ohmine reopened in 2010 after a 50-year hiatus. Its soft spring water and minimalist brewing approach produce expressive, fruit-forward sake. Aiyama is prized for its ability to produce rich, rounded textures and pronounced fruit character.

My tasting notes: I may have found another rice varietal I really like besides Yamada Nishiki. Not as crisp or sharply delineated, but round, smooth and lush. Sweet with a distinct honeydew melon note. Very light effervescence with a subtle carbonic bitterness that adds some balance. Consistent with my previous tasting. Excellent sake, though probably better before dinner than with delicate sushi. 94 points. — 5 days ago

Brandon Boesch

9.9

This is such a great beer. So well balanced. — 11 years ago

Jay Benfield

9.0

Had a glass with dinner at Oliverio's in Bridgeport, WV while on business travel last week. It was a random pick off the menu and I didn't expect it to be so good. Bold without being harsh or abrasive. — 12 years ago