Japanese Sake Education
Sake, often called the "Drink of the Gods" by the Japanese, is a beverage produced from sake varietal rices, pure water, koji spores, and specially selected yeasts. It is brewed like beer but drinks like a fine wine. The sake that we import is created without flavorings or additives and is more specifically referred to as "ginjo" sake--chilled, ultra-premium, artisan sake--not the boiled, cheap stuff that has (unfortunately) been served to Americans in small, ceramic carafes at sushi bars for decades.
Chilled Japanese premium sake has been enjoying almost 20% annual growth over the past five years. Sake's popularity is due not only to the infusion of Asian culture into the American art and food scene, but also because Americans are becoming better educated and aware of this fine brew.
We welcome you to expand your knowledge about this most versatile alcoholic beverage and growing category with our Sake Education pages:
- Premium Sake Facts & Tips: The go-to guide for how to serve, store, and speak sake
- How to Speak Sake: The ultimate sake glossary for all who wonder "What the heck does seimaibuai mean anyway and how do I pronounce it?"
- Sake Grade Levels: Not all sake are created equal... find out why!
- Sake Production 101: Everything you've ever wanted to know about how sake is made!
- Sake & Food Pairings: It's not just for sushi anymore. The possibilities are endless! Use this interactive guide to get started.