What is sake SMV?

SMV stands for Sake Meter Value and it measures the density of sake compared to water.

In order to decide whether each sake is dry or sweet, the sake meter value (SMV), or in Japanese the nihonshu-do, is the scale used for measurement. The SMV measures the density of sake compared to water. As shown in the chart below, the higher the positive number is, the drier the sake becomes, and the lower the negative number is, the sweeter the sake gets.

Together with the SMV, the acidity level is used to determine the characteristics of each sake: the higher the number, the richer the sake becomes, and the lower the number the lighter its taste.

These figures are often indicated on the backside of sake labels, so consumers can easily understand each sake's taste profile.