This sake is from Murashige Shuzo, more commonly known for their brand Kinkan Kuromatsu. It’s another Iwakuni sake with a reputation for winning awards and making good sake, though it’s still overshadowed by Gokyo and (of course) Dassai.
I’ve had Kinkan Kuromatsu a few times at events and restaurants, but this was my first time with Hinoshita Muso. The name means “Without equal, invincible” (literally, “no equal under the sun”), which seems kind of heavy for a drink, but what do I know about marketing?
On opening, this sake’s uwadachika was a mellow, balanced fruity aroma. It was very lightly straw-colored in the cup.
The first sip hit as sweet apple, with mild alcohol astringency. It has a full body with strong umami aftertaste.
The after-aroma faded quickly and didn’t linger on the palate. It was very drinkable all the way to the bottom of the bottle, and though sweet didn’t cloy.
Interestingly, I found this sake “came alive” with rich flavored foods. It paired really well with soy-flavored potato chips, smoked provolone cheese, and (surprisingly!) dark chocolate.
I’d say this is a very good table sake for rich meals-steak, red sauces, and the like.
Yamaguchi Sake 
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