As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting iichiko Saiten and I can tell you that it is a truly unique and delightful spirit. When it comes to describing the taste of iichiko Saiten, there are several key elements that come to mind.
First and foremost, iichiko Saiten has a strong and bold flavor profile. It immediately captivates the palate with its pronounced umami notes. Umami is often described as a savory, meaty flavor, and in the case of iichiko Saiten, it presents itself in the form of jasmine tea, adding a distinct and enjoyable dimension to the drink.
Alongside the umami notes, iichiko Saiten also showcases the luscious taste of white peaches. This fruitiness adds a touch of sweetness and juiciness to the spirit, balancing out the other flavors and creating a harmonious taste experience.
In addition to the jasmine tea and white peach, iichiko Saiten also exhibits mineral and earthy undertones. These elements provide depth and complexity to the spirit, giving it a sense of terroir and a unique character that sets it apart from other spirits.
Furthermore, there are subtle hints of citrus that contribute to the overall flavor profile of iichiko Saiten. These citrus notes add a touch of brightness and freshness to the spirit, further enhancing its complexity and making it a pleasure to drink.
Lastly, iichiko Saiten finishes with a delightful saline note. This saline finish adds a refreshing and slightly briny quality to the spirit, leaving a lingering taste that entices you to take another sip.
The taste of iichiko Saiten is a truly captivating experience. Its combination of umami, white peach, mineral, earth, citrus, and saline notes create a complex and multi-dimensional flavor profile that is both intriguing and satisfying. Whether enjoyed neat or used as a base in cocktails, iichiko Saiten offers endless possibilities for exploration and enjoyment.
Personal Experience:
I have had the pleasure of trying iichiko Saiten on several occasions, both on its own and in cocktails. One particular experience that stands out is when I had the opportunity to taste iichiko Saiten in a highball cocktail. The combination of the spirit's unique flavor profile with the effervescence of the soda water created a truly refreshing and enjoyable drink. The umami notes of jasmine tea, the sweetness of white peach, and the subtle citrus undertones all came together beautifully, making it a cocktail that I couldn't resist having another glass of. It was a perfect balance of flavors, and I could truly appreciate the complexity of iichiko Saiten in this context.