Not a beer
Not a wine
Not a spirit
Sake is Sake
Sake is a unique beverage unto itself. Many think sake is a wine, but it isn’t. Sake, or as referred to in Japan "Nihonshu", is an alcoholic beverage of Japanese origin that is crafted through a brewing process by fermenting polished rice.
Sake is made using only four simple and clean ingredients: rice, water, koji, and yeast.
Sake is made through a fermentation process similar to the one of beer using rice, water, koji and yeast as it's main ingredients.
Sake literally means "Japanese liquor" and has been in Japanese tradition for a long time, but it can be produced anywhere in the world.
Sake is classified by several factors that include the type of rice used, it's brewing process, filtration, and more.
Japanese sake is a world of artistry and craftsmanship, where tradition meets innovation. Its classification and categorization system showcase the expertise and passion of sake brewers who strive to create a diverse range of flavors and aromas.
When drinking sake with friends or colleagues, the Japanese often say "Kanpai!" before taking a sip. "Kanpai" means "Cheers!" in English.
The correct way to pronounce sake is "sah-keh," with the emphasis on the second syllable. The first syllable "sa" should be pronounced as in the English word "sun," and the second syllable "keh" should be pronounced as in the English word "kettle."
Curious about sake? This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about Japan’s iconic rice wine. From how to drink it properly to its alcohol content and health benefits, learn everything you need to know about this unique beverage.
SMV stands for Sake Meter Value and it measures the density of sake compared to water.
