International Wine Challenge (IWC) Awards, May 2025

A multi-layered sake with flavors of sweet pastry, almond, vanilla, yellow plum, and lemongrass. Sweet and milky, balanced by a touch of astringency and texture. When poured into the glass, the first impression is the inviting aroma of sweet baked pastry and roasted almonds. This is followed by the gentle sweetness of vanilla and the juicy fruitiness of yellow plum, all brightened by a refreshing hint of lemongrass. On the palate, a milky, melting sweetness unfolds, yet a subtle astringency and delicate texture add depth and maintain perfect balance with the sweetness. This tasting note reflects the signature style of “Nend”: restrained yet elegant aromatics, refined and precise texture, and a soft, expansive mid-palate - qualities that earned high praise from the judges.