Featuring three unique styles, Nagai Sake brewery’s Mizubasho Artist Series of Nagai Style sakes are easy to love, say fans
As versatile as a fine sake is, the diverse selection available today is helping further the traditional Japanese brew’s growing appeal, not only among food lovers but also the modern imbiber who might be looking for a style that’s lighter and more fruit driven. Such a selection of elegant yet contemporary expressions can be found with the Mizubasho Artist Series 2020, the latest from Nagai Sake brewery (located in Japan’s Gunma prefecture) that comprises a still and a sparkling sake, as well as a sweeter style that pairs well with desserts and even cheese. As the series’ name communicates, the labels feature pastel paintings of the native Mizubasho flower, captured by artist and actor Tsurutaro Kataoka.
These unique sakes are especially food friendly, says restaurant Hashida Singapore’s Kenjiro ‘Hatch’ Hashida, who hosted a private tasting of the selection with Tatler Dining Singapore. Also present that evening were special guests Serena Adsit, executive director of commercial modelling agency Mint Management, and entrepreneur and founder of Wee Bands, Daphne Wee.
As expected, the sakes went down well with the ladies. According to the producers, they were created with the modern woman in mind, aimed at offering them choices that are easy to drink yet enjoyably complex in their own way. “I could drink Mizubasho all day, any day,” shares Adsit, an avid fan who enjoys easy access to her collection of sakes anytime she craves a drink by herself to wind down after work, or something she can easily share with friends over a meal—whatever the meal. “That’s the beauty of sake, which maybe not many people are aware of, that you don't have to only enjoy it at your Japanese dinner; I’d encourage everyone to try it with different cuisines and even in the day with high tea or brunch,” she affirms.
Particularly impressed with how each of the three sakes were distinct, delicious and balanced on their own, Adsit posits how they would be just as delightful paired with different courses in a meal. “I love the clean crisp taste of sake as it’s made with essentially rice and water, yet it can be versatile enough to pair with any cuisine that tickles your fancy,” she expounds. She also believes that “like wine, sake appreciation is a very personal thing, and there are much more flavour profiles and styles to love, explore and enjoy.” Perceptibly delighted that Mizubasho has created the artist series specifically for women, Adsit alluded to a possibly untapped market of women drinkers within and outside of Japan.
(Related: The Tatler Bar is Your New Online Destination for the Finest Spirits, Champagnes and Sake)
