Suijin - God of Water
Brewery: Asabiraki
Type: Junmai

A hint of sweetness followed by a rich, complex aftertaste. This saké has depth and reminds one of a freshly steamed bowl of rice. It pairs nicely with grilled meats and teriyaki dishes. Suijin has proven popular with saké connoisseurs in New York (70% of Manhattan businesspeople eat sushi at least once a week, according to one survey). The allure of this saké may come from the fact that the rice is polished as much as 70%, producing a drink with a richer rice flavor that pairs well with food. Try it with grilled local salmon, rockfish or cod.

Hyorei - Ice and Cold
Brewery: Ozeki
Type: Junmai

This rich and smooth saké from Hyogo Prefecture has a spicy aroma and bold flavor that stands up to teriyaki dishes, enhancing the meal. The saké, brewed by leading saké maker Ozeki, uses pure rice, meaning no water is added prior to bottling. The alcohol content is a bit higher than most, and the saké is rich and flavorful.

Toryu - Rising Dragon
Brewery: Hakuyou
Type: Junmai

Toryu means “rising dragon.” This saké gives off an immediate scent of wild and flourishing sweet mash with a hint of dryness.  Soft and mild initial taste is followed by a flare of spicy sweetness taking over the palate.  This saké has a bit higher alcohol content than most. The full-bodied richness pairs well with teriyaki and other meat dishes.

Rokumaru Junmai
- Six Circles
Brewery: Nakagawa
Type: Junmai

This junmai saké uses a unique strain of saké rice, gouriki (enormous strength), grown in Tottori Prefecture and only used by two local breweries.  True to the name of the rice used and the influence of the harsh weather off the Japan Sea, this saké gives off an immediate aroma of earthiness.  The twistiness of the flavor settles nicely in your mouth, leaving a long lingering aftertaste. A perfect pairing for a flavorful dish like teriyaki.