Tsushimaya Gaiden Sudwind Perlwein Nama (津島屋外伝 純米酒 Sudwind (南の風) Perlwein 無濾過生原酒)

Among Miyozakura Jozo's sparkling 'Perlwein' series brewed with German white wine yeast—breaking conventional molds—this is the limited 'Südwind' (South Wind) edition, capturing the refreshing essence of summer. While sharing the same lineage as the previously mentioned 'Vater Rhein,' this masterpiece uses Hokkaido-grown 'Ginpu' sake rice to achieve an ultimate sweet-and-sour profile perfect for midsummer. The combination of an overwhelming sweetness marked by an SMV of -31 and an electrifying acidity of 4.3 (far exceeding ordinary sake) delivers a crispness akin to drinking a refreshing sour ale or an excellent dessert wine. According to global enthusiasts and sommeliers, the charm of this sake begins with its milky, yogurt-like aroma mingled with the fresh, zesty scents of grapefruit and green apple. Upon taking a sip, the fine bubbles created by in-bottle secondary fermentation pleasantly awaken the tongue, and juices reminiscent of biting into an apple or European pear burst forth over a light 11% ABV. The explosive acidity unique to the white wine yeast and a pleasant, grapefruit-peel-like bitterness cleanly wash away the lightly cloudy (Usunigori) texture that might otherwise feel sticky. Chilled thoroughly on a sweltering summer day and served in a champagne flute, it is a lovely sake that boasts a perfect balance.

1. Strawberry Shortcake or Fruit Daifuku: The juicy sweetness and the milky, yogurt-like nuances create a fantastic pairing with the sweet and soft textures of desserts, elegantly and freshly decorating the end of a meal. 2. Green Tomato Salad with Mozzarella and Basil Pesto: The bright herbaceous and green apple notes of Sudwind Perlwein pair well with the fresh tanginess of green tomatoes, creating a harmonious balance with the soft texture of mozzarella cheese. The basil pesto's herbal aroma enhances the sake's delicate flavors, while the sake's refreshing acidity enriches the salad's overall taste.