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Mutsu Hassen Natural Sparkling


Mutsu Hassen Natural Sparkling is brewed in the Aomori Prefecture, in the Northern part of the Honshu Island, by Hachinoe brewery. Founded in 1740, Hachinoe has a long history of brewing and it is making its best effort in being environmentally friendly. In fact, it uses local resources such as water, yeast and rice. Hachinoe’s line up includes many delicious sake and Mutsu Hassen Natural Sparkling truly is one of their highlights. Mutsu Hassen is a sparkling sake with 13% alcohol, which is slightly lower than most sake. It has a pearl-like color and it is very gentle on the nose with an intriguing aroma reminiscent of plum, lychee and unsweetened yogurt. Mutsu Hassen has a refreshing flavour with notes of melon, lychee, green apple, cedar wood and a hint of lime. ​ It is refreshing and it is the perfect choice for anyone who's new to sake. At the same time, it is really interesting for sake fans too, as it is a bit of a surprise. In fact, at a first glance I thought it was going to be way sweeter, as sparkling sake often is, and I was amazed by its perfect balance and drinkability. It is the kind of sake that brings everyone together, first timers and sake fans alike. One of the things I appreciate the most about this sake is its versatility as it really brings out the umami of the food and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. I would recommend drinking this sake chilled (around 5°C~8°C) in a white wine glass, or better in a flute. Mutsu Hassen is fresh and crisp at the same time, with a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. This sparkling sake has a light body that makes it really easy to drink, a medium dryness and a beautiful aftertaste that shows a little salinity. Perfect for a toast, it’ll pair amazingly with some finger food for a bubbly happy hour. ​ Imagine a warm summer evening. After a long hot day, you finally head to dinner. A refreshing breeze brings to your nose the wonderful smell that comes from the restaurant kitchen. You sit at the terrace, it’s time to start aperitivo. In front of you, a beautiful platter of assorted cheese: camembert, mozzarella, parmigiano.. , melon slices wrapped in Parma ham, figs with honey, fried scampi. All this is accompanied, of course, by Mutsu Hassen. Its light and refreshing flavour will quench your thirst and will make each bite shine. ​ Next is the grilled mackerel you ordered, simply seasoned with salt, pepper, olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. The mild dryness of the sake is the perfect balance to the dish. Mutsu Hassen will ease you into the evening and accompany you throughout it. What an amazing night.


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