By Charles 
Once you have tried Dassai 45, the natural next step is Dassai 39, and it is a genuinely worthwhile move. This bottle takes the same approach but pushes the polish further, and the difference is noticeable.
The Basics
| Type | Junmai Daiginjo |
| Brewery | Asahi Shuzo, Yamaguchi |
| ABV | Around 16% |
| Price Tier | Premium |
| Where to find it | Specialist sake shops and select restaurants worldwide |
| Serving temp | Chilled |
Background
Dassai 39 follows the same numbering system as the rest of the range, with the rice polished down to 39 percent of its original size. That extra polish compared to Dassai 45 removes more of the outer layers of the rice grain, which generally produces a cleaner, more delicate result, since those outer layers carry flavours and fats that can muddy the final taste.
This bottle sits in an interesting middle ground within the Dassai range, more refined than the entry point but not quite reaching the rarity of the very top tier. It is often seen as the version that shows real craftsmanship without venturing into pure showpiece territory.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
More delicate than Dassai 45, with white flower, pear, and a faint melon note replacing some of the bolder fruit.
Palate
Elegant and precise, with a gentler sweetness and a noticeably smoother texture. The acidity is well integrated rather than sitting on top of the flavour.
Finish
Long and clean, with a soft, lingering quality rather than a sharp cut off.
Mouthfeel
Silky, with real refinement for the price point.
Best Paired With
This sake suits delicate, well prepared dishes, particularly seafood or anything with subtle seasoning that will not compete with its more refined profile. It also works nicely as a quiet sipping sake on its own.
The Verdict
⭐⭐⭐⭐ out of 5
A genuine step up from Dassai 45, and one that justifies the higher price tier through real, tasteable refinement rather than branding alone.
Who it’s for: Anyone who enjoyed Dassai 45 and wants to see what the extra polish brings to the glass.
Who should skip it: Anyone on a tighter budget, since Dassai 45 offers much of the same character at a lower price tier.
Takeaway: Dassai 39 shows that small numbers can make a genuinely noticeable difference.