In Japanese, the term “sake” simply denotes alcohol, regardless of its type. In a western setting, “sake” refers specifically to Japanese rice wine (called “nihonshu” in Japan). In this article, we’ll be introducing the latter and giving you a few tips on how to choose it.
Japanese rice wine is made of fermented rice and, depending on the type of rice that is used, can have specific flavours associated with it. Every part of Japan produces its own variety of sake, under different climate conditions, by using different types of rice, and by adding different compounds to aid the fermentation process. With so many options, it can be daunting to choose a bottle on a menu or in a shop. Here are some ways to differentiate one bottle from the next.
Outside of temples you can often see walls of sake barrels, usually in preparation for New Year celebrations.
Namazake (pure sake)
This is sake in its purest form. Straight, unclouded and without any added alcohol or flavours. Namazake is the most common way to drink rice wine and is easy to distinguish from its peers.
Nigorizake (cloudy sake)
Unlike Namazake, Nigorizake is cloudy and heavy with sediments. This type of sake is usually sweeter than Namazake however, some very bitter varieties also exist.
Amazake (sweet sake)
Also cloudy and sweet, the main difference between Nigorizake and Amazake is that it is non-alcoholic. Amazake is usually very thick and since it’s alcohol free, children and adults alike can enjoy its taste. Typically, this alcohol-free sake can be found at festivals and sold by street vendors during the cold winter months.
Atsukan (hot sake)
Finally, Atsukan is not as much a sake as it is a way of serving it. Some high grade sakes are best served cold however, some become even better once heated. Atsukan is therefore a warm sake that can be ordered at restaurants the same as any other sake. Atsukan tends to be a little bit sweeter than Namazake, and especially good to savour in the winter when it’s cold outside.
A festival tent has cups of Amazake lined up for the staff and residents alike.
Rice wine is a wonderful, typically Japanese drink that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether out with friends, or after a long day at work, rice wine has many facets that can be leisurely explored. Try different types of alcoholic and non-alcoholic sakes and become accustomed to its unique taste.
Different bottles of rice wine, each with their own unique flavours.
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