Hello!
In our restaurant, sake is immensely popular. Due to numerous inquiries and feedback from our customers, we would like to discuss everything from the basics of sake to its varieties and ways to enjoy it.
Before we delve deeper into the allure of sake, let’s start with the basics.
Sake is a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made from rice, koji (rice malt), water, and yeast. Here are the basic information on its production process and types:
Production Process
– Rice Polishing: Before brewing, the outer portion of the rice grain is removed. A lower rice-polishing ratio often results in a higher quality sake.
– Rice Washing & Soaking: The rice is first washed and then soaked to absorb an appropriate amount of water.
– Steaming: The washed and soaked rice is steamed.
– Koji Making: A portion of the steamed rice has koji mold added to make koji rice.
– Fermentation: Koji rice, steamed rice, water, and yeast are mixed and fermented, with multiple additions made over time.
– Pressing: Once fermentation is complete, the mash is pressed to separate the clear liquid from the residual solids (lees).
Ways to Enjoy Sake
1. Cold Sake (Hiyazake):
– This method involves chilling the sake.
– It’s especially recommended during summer or warmer seasons.
– It allows you to enjoy a refreshing taste and aroma.
2. Warm Sake (Atsukan):
– Sake is heated to between 40°C to 55°C.
– Popular during winter or colder seasons.
– Warming enhances its mellow taste and aroma.
3. Room Temperature (Jouon):
– Served neither chilled nor warmed.
– Lets you directly appreciate the inherent taste and aroma of the sake.
4. On the Rocks:
– Served with ice. Enjoyed similarly to whiskey or shochu.
– Ideal for hot days or pairing with certain meals.
5. Cocktails:
– Mixed with other beverages, fruits, or herbs.
– Discover new flavors and ways to enjoy.
6. Using Ochoko or Glasses:
– Whether in a traditional “ochoko”, wine glass, or tumbler, the choice of vessel can influence the flavor and aroma, offering different impressions.
Sake pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. In our establishment, we especially recommend enjoying it with dishes like mushroom isobe-age (seaweed-wrapped fried mushrooms) and tofu steak.
With its diverse varieties, and the way its character changes based on temperature, vessel, and method of consumption, sake offers a myriad of experiences. Trying it in different ways can be a journey to find your personal preferences and pairings. We invite you to relish the profound world of sake.