Introduction
Sake is a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is made from fermented rice and water and has a unique taste and aroma that sets it apart from other alcoholic drinks.
Sake is often served at Japanese restaurants and izakayas but is also popular in many other countries. It is a versatile drink that can be paired with a variety of foods and enjoyed on various occasions. However, many people are unaware of the proper way to drink sake, which can result in a less satisfying experience.
Therefore, let’s understand the fundamentals of sake drinking. By learning the correct way to drink sake, one can fully appreciate its subtle flavours and aromas and make it more enjoyable, whether alone or with friends.
In this article, we will introduce you to different types of sake, serving and drinking sake, pairing sake with food, and the best way to enjoy sake.
What is Sake?
Japanese sake is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from rice, water, yeast, and koji (a rice wine starter culture). It has been brewed in Japan for centuries and is essential in Japanese culture. The brewing process of sake is complex and requires excellent skill and expertise.
Types of Sake
There are many types of sake to choose from, each with its unique flavour and aroma suitable for different occasions. The four main types of sake include:
- Junmai
- Honjozo
- Ginjo
- Daiginjo
Choosing sake
Personal preferences and the occasion you’re celebrating should be considered when choosing your sake.
Sake can be categorized based on the rice grains’ degree of polishing, which will affect the flavour and aroma. Usually, the more polished the rice, the more delicate and refined the sake.
Here are some tips on how to select sake:
- Junmai: The full-bodied, rich flavour of Junmai sake is suitable for heartier dishes such as grilled meats and stews.
- Ginjo: Made from rice polished to 60% or more, Ginjo sake has a fruity, floral aroma and a lighter, more delicate flavour. It pairs well with lighter dishes such as sashimi, seafood, and salads.
- Daiginjo: Daiginjo sake is made from rice polished to at least 50%. It has an even more delicate and refined flavour than Ginjo and pairs well with sushi, sashimi, and other exquisite dishes.
- Nigori: Nigori sake is cloudy and unfiltered, giving it a creamy texture and a sweet, fruity flavour. This type of sake will pair well with spicy foods and desserts.
- Honjozo: Honjozo sake is made with a small amount of distilled alcohol and has a lighter, drier flavour.
Usually, a celebratory occasion may call for a more refined and delicate sake such as Daiginjo, whereas a full-bodied Junmai sake is more suitable for casual meetings.
Serving and drinking sake
Serving sake properly is an essential part of the drinking experience as it can affect the flavour and aroma of the sake. Pairing sake with the right food will enhance the taste of both the sake and the food, thereby improving the overall dining experience.
Do you sip sake or shoot it?
Japanese sake is meant to be savoured slowly, rather than shot like liquor. Take small sips to allow the flavour and aroma to develop on your palate. By slowly sipping it, you can fully appreciate the complex flavours and aromas of this traditional Japanese alcohol.
Can you drink sake straight?
Drinking sake straight, or “neat,” is not a common practice in Japan. They are typically served as a part of a meal to complement the flavours of the food. However, if you prefer to drink sake neat, it is recommended to select a high-quality, premium sake that has been well-matured with a complex flavour profile.
What are the rules for drinking sake?
When drinking sake with people, remember to pour for others before pouring for yourself. The person pouring should hold the bottle with both hands and pour the sake slowly to avoid splashing or spilling.
Likewise, when receiving sake from someone else, it is customary to hold the cup with both hands and thank the person who poured it for you. When handling a sake vessel, avoid touching the rim of the cup with your fingers as it’s considered disrespectful. Instead, hold it by the base or sides.
In Japan, it is also common to say “Kanpai!” which means ‘Cheers!’, before drinking sake. When toasting, it is polite to look each person in the eye and raise your cup slightly higher than theirs.
By following these rules, you can show respect for Japanese tradition and culture while enjoying your sake.
Serving temperature and food pairings
Temperature is one of the main factors to consider while serving sake.
Japanese sake can be served either cold or warm, depending on individual preference and the type of sake. Generally, lighter and more delicate sakes such as ginjo and daiginjo are best served cold; fuller-bodied sakes such as junmai are better served warm. Nigori sake is usually served chilled.
Should sake be chilled or warm?
There are three most common serving temperatures for sake: chilled, room temperature, or warm.
Chilled sake, also known as ‘reishu’, highlights the crisp and refreshing taste of the sake. Sake of this temperature pairs well with lighter dishes such as sashimi and salads.
Sake served at room temperature, or ‘junmaishu’, allows the natural flavours and aromas of the sake to shine through. This temperature is ideal for more full-bodied sakes and pairs well with heartier dishes like grilled meats.
Warm sake, or ‘kan’, is often served during winter to provide warmth and comfort. The heat brings out different flavours and is ideal for more robust and aged sakes.
Should I put ice in sake?
Adding ice to sake is not recommended as it can dilute the flavor and aroma. Instead, chill sake in a refrigerator or ice bucket if you prefer it cold, or warm it up using a hot water bath.
Sake food pairing
Japanese sake pairs well with various foods and can help enhance the dish’s flavours.
Here are a few popular pairings in Japan:
- Sake and Sashimi
Sashimi is raw fish served without rice and pairs well with chilled sake. The sake’s clean and refreshing taste complements the sashimi’s delicate flavours.
- Sake and Tempura
Tempura is a dish of battered and fried seafood or vegetables that can pair well with crisp and dry sake. The light and clean taste of the sake complements the crispy and savoury flavours of the tempura.
- Sake and Yakitori
Yakitori, also known as grilled chicken skewers, pairs well with warm sake. The savoury flavours of the chicken and the smoky flavours from the grill are perfect for the mild sweetness and acidity of warm sake.
Snacks to pair with sake
Sake is a versatile drink that pairs well with many foods including snacks like edamame, sushi, and cheese.
- Edamame: These boiled soybeans are a popular Japanese snack that pairs well with sake. The saltiness of the edamame can complement the umami flavours of sake.
Photo by Valeria Boltneva - Sushi: Sushi and sake are a classic pairing in Japan. The rice in sushi provides a neutral base that highlights the flavours of the fish and the subtle flavours of the sake.
Photo by Diego Pontes - Cheese: Sake also pairs well with cheese, especially soft, creamy cheeses like brie or camembert. The mild sweetness and acidity of sake complement the rich, fatty flavours of the cheese.
When pairing sake with snacks, consider the flavours and textures of both the sake and the food. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you.
Fruits pair with sake
Sake’s subtle sweetness and acidity make it a great pairing with fruits like persimmons, mango, pineapple, and strawberries.
- Persimmon has a sweet, slightly astringent flavor that complements the mild sweetness and acidity of sake. It also has a soft, creamy texture that can contrast with the smooth texture of sake.
Photo by Any Lane - Mango has a rich, tropical flavour. The sweetness of the mango is offset by the acidity of the sake, creating a balanced and refreshing pairing.
Photo by ROMAN ODINTSOV - Pineapple has a sweet, tangy flavour. The acidity of the pineapple and sake creates a bright and refreshing pairing.
- Strawberry has a sweet, juicy flavour. The acidity of the strawberry is balanced by the sake, creating a harmonious pairing.
Sake is more than just an alcoholic beverage
Drinking Japanese sake is a cultural experience that involves selecting the type of sake, serving it at the proper temperature, and pairing it with the right foods. Following proper drinking etiquette is also essential to show respect for the beverage and the people you are sharing with. Drinking this alcoholic beverage is considered an art that requires knowledge and practice to fully appreciate its unique flavours and aromas.
Whether you are a sake novice or a seasoned connoisseur, these tips will help you enjoy this popular Japanese beverage to the fullest. So go ahead, grab a bottle of sake, and explore the wonderful world of Japanese sake!
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