One of the greatest sparkling Sakes that we have ever tasted Dewatsuru Awasake Ashitae Junmai Ginjo, shows how far the sparkling category has progressed over the years and is an exceptional example that just picked up a gold medal at the Vinalies Internationals which is held by the Union of Oenologist in France. This is crafted by Akita Seishu Co., Ltd., a brewery established in 1865 in Akita Prefecture, Japan and as it stands, they are the premier producer of sparkling sake. This Junmai Ginjo is brewed from Akita Sake Komachi rice, polished to 55%, and is produced using the traditional Champagne method, with in-bottle secondary fermentation resulting in fine, persistent bubbles with a lower alcohol content than usual for Sake at 13%. This shows gentle aromas of pineapple, pear, melon, and white florals, complemented by citrus and floral perfume on the palate and a finish hinting at baking spices. It has a very gentle sweetness akin to a perfect Chamapgne dosage. The name "Ashitae," meaning "towards tomorrow," reflects the brewery's commitment to innovation in sake production and this is a superb example of that commitment. The Ashitae offers many versatile pairings with dishes such as Caprese, pizza, prosciutto, sausage, gnocchi, miso soup and of course sushi.