016 Sake´ Nomi

Let's Talk Japan Podcast

In this episode, Nick speaks with Johnnie Stroud, the owner of Sake´ Nomi, a premium sake´ shop and tasting bar in Seattle, Washington. Together they discuss how Johnnie discovered sake´, what motivated him to open a business specializing in sake´, and why you should be drinking more sake´, preferably bought from Sake´ Nomi!

Johnnie and Sake´Nomi were featured in a Japanese manga comic titled “Kurodo” by Akira Oze. In my opinion, they definitely nailed Johnnie’s likeness!

The Price for a tasting flight of all three – a “kikizake sampler” – was $20 (2 oz. pour of each)

Here are the official tasting notes and prices of the sake´ I sampled during my visit. (Pictured above, right to left)

#1 Yaegaki Mu “Nothingness” – Junmai Daiginjo from Hyogo Prefecture

Light amber tint, with crisp apple aroma. Wonderfully settled and calm, melting and smooth. Layered, complex, well-rounded, and balanced, Brewed with the “king” of sake´rice, Yamada Nishiki.

$12 for 4 oz. in house pour; $40/720 ml bottle; $22/300 ml bottle.

#2 Narutotai “Ginjo Shiboritate” Nama Genshu from Tokushima Prefecture

Yeasty, sweet grain aromas. Soft, full, gentle mouthful, with ripened fruit sweetness and slight minerality. Lingering finish shows a touch of mint. The “oil can” would be ideal at a barbecue or with fatty sashimi. The brewery was established in 1804.

$15 for 4 oz. in house pour; $ 50/720 ml can

#3 Tedorikawa Kinka “Gold Blossom” Daiginjo from Ishikawa Prefecture

Floral nose, with notes reminiscent of dates and raisins, Mild spice, minerality, and cinnamon notes on the palate. Subtly layered, soft and settled. Deep, rich, mature, and mellow, especially for a namezake (unpasteurized sake´).

$15 for 4 oz. in house pour; $ 48/720 ml bottle

Be sure to check out Sake´ Nomi’s great website, “like” their Facebook page, and follow them on Twitter.