1. Sawaya Matsumoto Shuhari Saido 1292 (Matsumoto Shuzo, Kyoto)
Hyogo prefecture is known for its ideal microclimate for growing premium Yamada Nishiki rice, which explains why sake labels are still named after the address of the rice fields here. Saido 1292—the address where the Yamada Nishiki rice for this bottle is harvested—is a slope that faces south and experiences a significant gap in day-time and night-time temperatures. As a result, the sake boasts vibrant umami, bitterness and acidity. Best with red meat such as grilled beef top-round, or tuna akami sushi (sushi rice is made using red vinegar).