The epitome of the “local” farm-to-table movement, this sake is made only with rice, water, and labor from its own prefecture. Ama No To translates to “Heaven’s Door,” referring to the prefecture which is at the northernmost tip of Japan. The label image is an icon of good fortune from Amaterasu, the Shinto Sun Goddess who is believed to have brought light to the world and cultivated Japan’s first rice fields.

Layers of dried flowers and baking spice give way to savory salinity. Slightly dry and medium-bodied. Clean and focused on the finish to accentuate its rice-like qualities.

Try it with game birds, pork ribs, or wild mushrooms. It is also the perfect pairing for pickled and fermented foods.