In a groundbreaking move that marries Japanese tradition with American innovation, DASSAI Blue has unveiled DASSAI Blue Beyond, The First Step. This ultra-premium Junmai Daiginjo sake marks a historic milestone. Limited to just 10 bottles in its inaugural release, Beyond represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship, blending the finest ingredients with meticulous artistry to create a sake that transcends expectations.
Crafted at DASSAI Blue’s state-of-the-art brewery in Hyde Park, New York, Beyond is a testament to the brand’s relentless pursuit of excellence. Using Yamada Nishiki rice—often referred to as the “king of sake rice”—grown in Arkansas and pristine water sourced from New York, the brewers have achieved a sake that rivals the legendary DASSAI Blue Type 23. This achievement is no small feat, as Type 23 is widely regarded as the epitome of perfection in the sake world.
The journey to create Beyond was anything but ordinary. It took seven batches to achieve the desired result, with each iteration refining the balance of flavor, aroma, and texture. The final product is a Nama (unpasteurized) sake, stored frozen to preserve its peak freshness. Encased in custom-made blue titanium bottles, Beyond is as visually striking as it is exquisite in taste.
DASSAI Chairman Hiroshi Sakurai expressed his pride in the achievement, stating, “I am glad DASSAI Blue Beyond could reach this high level of quality at the New York brewery. Now we are at the beginning of the journey for DASSAI Blue.”
What sets Beyond apart is its bold and captivating aroma, a departure from the more delicate profiles typically associated with Japanese sakes. Notes of melon and banana dance on the nose, while the palate reveals an unprecedented level of complexity and smoothness. This is a sake that challenges conventions, offering a flavor profile that has never before been articulated in American-made sake.
The creation of Beyond was inspired by a significant historical milestone: the founding of Isetan, the iconic Japanese department store, in 1886. To honor this legacy, DASSAI Blue chose a rice polishing ratio of 19%, a nod to the 19th year of the Meiji era. This thoughtful detail underscores the brand’s deep respect for tradition, even as it pioneers new frontiers in the world of sake.
Timed to coincide with the arrival of spring, Beyond symbolizes a new chapter for DASSAI Blue and American sake as a whole. It joins DASSAI Blue’s esteemed lineup, which includes the popular Type 23, 35, and 50 sakes, as well as the Nigori Sparkling variety.
For those wanting to experience this extraordinary sake, DASSAI Blue Beyond, The First Step will be available exclusively at the DASSAI Blue Sake Brewery in Hyde Park, New York, starting March 19th. Priced at $1,200 per bottle, it will also be offered online at DASSAI.com, with shipping available to select states. Additionally, Beyond will be featured at select restaurants across New York, offering connoisseurs a chance to savor this unparalleled creation.
