Water in Sake: How Shikomi Mizu Shapes the Brew
Water in sake brewing isn't just a matter of hydration—it’s an elemental influence, a quiet architect in the background that shapes the character, aroma, and flavor of the final product. In sake,...
Sake Yeasts: The Microbes Behind the Magic
Sake, Japan’s beloved rice brew, has captivated drinkers around the world for centuries with its delicate flavors, floral aromas, and remarkable versatility. But behind this delightful experience lies an unsung hero: yeast....
Rice Polishing: How Seimai Buai Defines Sake Quality
In the world of sake, rice polishing, or seimai (精米), is a fundamental process, pivotal in determining the quality, flavor, and character of each bottle. At the heart of this process is...
Koshu: The Depths of Aged Sake
Sake, Japan’s signature rice-based alcoholic drink, is known globally for its delicate aroma, smoothness, and gentle sweetness. However, within this spectrum of sake exists an underappreciated gem with a unique character—koshu (古酒),...
Namazake: Exploring the Raw Beauty of Unpasteurized Sake
For sake enthusiasts, the Japanese brewing world is a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and history. Among these treasures, namazake—unpasteurized sake—holds a special allure. Like a snapshot of a living process, namazake...
Nigori Sake: Cloudy, Bold, and Unfiltered
When you think of sake, perhaps a clear, smooth drink comes to mind, with delicate aromas and a subtle sweetness. But then there’s nigori sake (more accurately pronounced nigorizake), the wild, unfiltered...
Ginjo & Daiginjo: What Are These Two Major Sake Types?
When you're sipping sake, you might hear the words ginjo and daiginjo thrown around as if they’re secrets to some hidden flavor universe. And, well, in a way, they are! Understanding these...
Discovering Honjozo: A Gateway to Sake Appreciation
If you're starting your journey into the world of sake, "honjozo" is a term you'll want to know. Often overshadowed by its more glamorous cousins, like daiginjo and junmai, honjozo sake stands...
Junmai: Sake’s Purest Form
For those already familiar with sake, you know it's more than just Japan’s national drink—it's a craft deeply intertwined with culture, tradition, and regional expression. Within the sake world, one category consistently...