Japanese fine sakes are fermented beverages that are brewed like beers and appreciated like fine wines.

The average alcohol content is around 15%, a touch higher than wine. With that being said, sake is a fermented beverage and not a spirit, so it should be sipped and savoured.

When we mention fine sakes, we are specifically talking about those that belong to the premium sake category.

Legally, premium sake can only be made using five ingredients: rice, water, yeast, koji, and a small amount of distilled alcohol. As a result, fine sakes are exceptionally pure, devoid of any preservatives, tannins, or sulfites—comprising only natural elements.

Fine sakes exhibit a diverse range of aromas, flavours, and textures, ensuring there's a perfect sake for every occasion.

Moreover, each one carries a rich narrative and cultural significance, deeply rooted in its terroir.

What is Sake?

Japan’s topography is blessed with a wide range of climates and terrains. Such diversity has given rise to unique histories, traditions and cultures deeply rooted in each region. For these reasons, Japanese drinks have their own personality that reflects their distinct terroir and henceforth, their own unique ways to be appreciated.

This is why we release each sake portfolio in seasonality, with each chapter concentrating on a region of Japan.

FAQs

  • Here are some of the most common sake flavours.

    Fresh Fruits: Apples, Pears, Melons, Bananas, Grapes, Quince, Pineapples, Mangos, Plums, Peaches, Nectarines, Lemons, Limes, Grapefruits, Strawberries, Cherries

    Dried / Cooked Fruits: Raisins, Prunes, Figs, Baked Bananas

    Floral: Lilies, Elderflower, Chamomile, Roses

    Rice: Steamed Rice, Malt, Porridge

    Savoury: Soy Sauce, Mushrooms, Truffles

    Dairy: Yoghurt, Butter, Cream, Cheese, Milk

    Nuts: Almonds, Walnuts, Macadamia Nuts, Roasted Nuts

    Yeasty: Brioche, Biscuits

    Spices: White Pepper, Black Pepper, Cinnamon, Aniseed

    Sweet: Candy Floss, Honey, Chocolate

    Clearly, there is a lot to enjoy with a glass of sake at hand!

  • Premium sake is crafted using only five ingredients: rice, water, yeast, koji, and a small amount of distilled alcohol.

    In contrast, table sake is not subject to any legal requirements regarding additives or ingredients.

  • Unfortunately, there is no straightforward answer to this question as the decision often boils down to personal preference or the dining context. If it's a warm day, you might lean toward a cool and refreshing sip, while a rich, hearty dish could prompt you to opt for warmed sake.

    In general, consider the following guideline:

    • Colder sake tends to offer a drier and fresher experience. This is well-suited for delicate sake varieties that may lose their fruity and floral nuances when heated.

    • On the other hand, higher temperatures intensify the sake's taste, bringing out more umami, sweetness, alcohol warmth, and a full-bodied profile.

    Ultimately, the choice between hot and cold sake is a matter of personal taste. We highly suggest you experiment with both to discover your preferred serving style!

  • Whether you’re relishing a Sunday Roast or a Chinese takeaway, umami plays a crucial role in the synergy between sake and food pairings. It is the secret behind why sake complements a diverse range of cuisines.

    Even the most subtle sake styles possess an underlying umami flavour, setting them apart from other beverages. This inherent umami has the ability to elevate the cheesy, salty or savoury notes already present in your dish. Alternatively, it can introduce complexity and a depth of flavour to any meal that may lack it.

    So, when it comes to sake and food pairings, remember there’s no fuss, just pure deliciousness.

  • In traditional Japanese culture, sake is often enjoyed communally, with friends, family, or colleagues gathering to share drinks. That is why the customary way of drinking sake in Japan is in small cups as the small size of the glassware encourages frequent pouring and sharing among the group, which is meant to foster conversation and camaraderie.

    While we respect this tradition, especially when enjoying hot sake, we often opt to savour our sake in wine glasses. We believe that wine glasses offer the optimal vessel for appreciating the full spectrum of aromas and flavours present in Japanese fine sake.