YUZU SAKE, A CITRUS-FORWARD NEW RELEASE BY DASSAI BLUE
Before for the May 1 launch of Dassai Blue Yuzu, the 50 guests at The Dishing’s April 29 TINY Talk, a conversation with Dassai USA President Shohei Yamane, were among the first to sample their new yuzu sake infusion.
Photo: Dassai Blue (provided)
Yuna Walker of Dassai Blue with the new release yuzu sake
THE MOOD: Aperitif | Tapas | Summer | Happy hour
OUR CRUSH: Dassai Blue Yuzu Sake. New release 2026
THE PRICE: $33
THE BACKSTORY: Crafted at the DASSAI BLUE Sake Brewery in Hyde Park, N.Y., Yuzu uses their signature Junmai Daiginjo Type 50 sake, brewed with Yamada Nishiki sake rice.” By blending the Type 50 sake with yuzu juice sourced from Yuzuco, water and a touch of sugar, the result is a balanced, lower-alcohol (11% ABV) sake with crisp, refreshing ing acidity and lemon-like fragrance.
In recent years, as Japan’s domestic consumption of sake has declined and exports to the U.S. have increased to almost 23% of all sales, sake brewers have begun experimenting with sparkling and more citrus-forward expressions that work well where wine or sparkling wine might otherwise be served. Dassai Blue 23 was featured at the 2025 and 2026 dinners following The Oscars ceremony.
WHAT TO PAIR: The sweet-tart profile of a premium Yuzu sake is enjoyable as an aperitif and familiar when paired with lighter, fresh, or citrus-friendly dishes such as sushi, grilled fish or salads, it also pairs surprisingly well with creamy foods (including savory or sweet yogurt-based dishes). And because yuzu sake leans to sweeter and more acidic, it contrasts well with savory, fatty, or salty foods like pork belly or curry. — SDP
🍋 🍸 Dassai Blue Yuzu is also versatile in cocktails. Mix with prosecco for a spritz, or add gin or vodka with soda water for a highball. - SDP
