Tatenokawa 18

The pinnacle of Tatenokawa Shuzo's range, "18" takes its name from the extraordinary rice-polishing ratio used to make it - just 18% of the original grain remains, among the highest polishing ratios of any sake made in Japan.

Only the "nakadori" - the purest, best-tasting portion of the pressed sake - is bottled. The nose is pronounced and complex, with honeysuckle, pear, lychee, pineapple and jasmine. The palate is mild, smooth and off-dry, with luscious pear at its core and a very long, fruity, mineral-tinged finish of exceptional finesse.

• Producer: Tatenokawa Shuzo
• Country: Japan
• Region: Yamagata
• Rice polishing ratio: 18% (Junmai Daiginjo, nakadori pressing only)
• Bottle size: 72cl
• Alcohol: 15% ABV
• Style: Junmai Daiginjo sake
• Serving suggestion: Serve lightly chilled in a white wine glass
• Food pairing: Delicate seafood, sushi and sashimi, or on its own as a luxury sipper
• Storage: Store upright, refrigerated, away from light