Guide to sake
Explore Japan's national drink
Are you one of those people who’s seen the word sake on the drinks menu but never quite had the courage to try it? Or do you simply want to know more about what it actually is? We’ve heard that before – and it’s perfectly fine to ask the waiter or feel unsure.
What is sake?
Brewed from rice, water, yeast and koji, sake is an essential part of Japanese culture – and the country’s national drink. Known for its clean and aromatic taste, it plays a key role in shaping the Japanese flavour profile and pairs beautifully with starters, mains, and desserts. Sake comes in many varieties – from sweet and fruity to dry and tangy.
Often referred to as Japanese rice wine, its brewing process is actually closer to beer. First, the rice is polished and then undergoes a conversion process where starch turns into sugar. Only then can fermentation begin. This is called multiple parallel fermentation – and it’s completely unique to sake.
How to enjoy sake
Sake can be enjoyed on its own or with food. Do as the Japanese do – enjoy sake with a meal. We serve ours in small ceramic cups or glasses, poured from a bottle or carafe. Perfect for sharing.
Sake with sushi
Which sushi with which sake?
There are no hard rules – but here are a few pairing recommendations to try this autumn:
Sashimi with Sanka Daiginjo
Our Sanka goes perfectly with fresh sashimi. Try, for example, a Shake or Maguro sashimi for a clean and delicate match..
Spicy Tuna Roll with Karakuchi Gold
If you like sushi with a bit of spice, Karakuchi Gold is a great choice, as it has a light dryness and mild aroma.
Four Meal Drive with Kizan Ginjo
Try our Four Meal Drive with a fresh sake like Kizan Junmai, which gives you a well-rounded experience.
Other dishes and great pairings
Temaki Setto with Sanka Daiginjo
The fresh fish and rice in our Temaki Setto are beautifully balanced by the crisp and dry taste of our Masumi Sanka Junmai sake.
Sticks and warm sake
Warm, seasoned sticks and warm sake? That’s when autumn truly begins.
Dessert and Umeshu
The soft, fruity plum sake with umami undertones matches our sweet desserts perfectly. A sweet ending to a great meal.