Tozai Living Jewel is a sake that can be categorized as dry rather than sweet. Its aroma profile suggests a crisp and clean taste, with notes of white grape, anise, and a hint of sweet rice. These aromas provide a refreshing and inviting experience when you first encounter the sake.
On the palate, Tozai Living Jewel delivers a balanced and complex flavor profile. You will find citrus notes that add a zesty brightness to the sake, along with a touch of white pepper that adds a subtle spiciness. These flavors are complemented by fresh herbal notes, which contribute to the overall complexity of the sake.
The finish of Tozai Living Jewel is particularly notable, as it is long and clean. This means that the flavors linger on the palate in a pleasant way, without any lingering sweetness or heaviness. The clean finish allows the true character of the sake to shine through, making it a versatile and enjoyable choice for a variety of food pairings.
Speaking of food pairings, Tozai Living Jewel can be paired with a range of dishes. Its dry profile makes it a great match for seafood, such as baked herbed salmon or grilled lobster. The citrus and herbal notes in the sake complement the flavors of the seafood, enhancing the overall dining experience. Additionally, the light poultry dishes can also be paired with Tozai Living Jewel, as the dryness of the sake provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the poultry.
In terms of personal experiences, I have had the pleasure of enjoying Tozai Living Jewel with a grilled lobster dish. The dryness of the sake worked wonderfully with the succulent and buttery lobster meat, creating a harmonious pairing. The citrus notes in the sake cut through the richness of the lobster, while the herbal notes added a touch of complexity to the overall flavor combination.
Overall, Tozai Living Jewel can be described as a dry sake with a complex flavor profile. Its aromas of white grape, anise, and sweet rice set the stage for a refreshing and crisp taste. The citrus, white pepper, and fresh herbal notes on the palate contribute to the complexity of the sake, while the long and clean finish allows the true character of the sake to shine through. Whether paired with seafood or light poultry dishes, Tozai Living Jewel is a versatile and enjoyable choice for sake enthusiasts.