Chikurin Hou Hou Shu Sparkling Sake – $8.99 (180ml)

WAIT! If you don’t like sake you probably haven’t tried good sake. I was the same way but now I’ve seen the light. Good sake (served cold opposed to warm) has fantastic, bright fruit flavors and this sparkling sake is no exception.

Sparkling sake is the newest trend in Japan and it’s hitting the US. Although it isn’t considered a serious beverage to sake traditionalists, I enjoy the crisp taste and fun bubbles. The Chikurin offers ultra bright pear, melon and peach flavors with a hint of yogurt. This sake is unfiltered, called Nigori, which means it is slightly cloudy. Serve this wine in Champagne flutes to maximize the bubbles also turning it into the PERFECT summer apéritif. Trust me, go out and buy this wine, you will not be disappointed.
Pair with lighter dishes; salad, sashimi or dessert.