Sake is a Japanese drink that’s made from rice. To get the most out of it, you have to learn the right way to drink it. It mostly depends on the temperature of the sake. Its temperature affects the flavor, which is why it’s important that you pick the right temperature.
In this article, we’re going to look at everything sake – what it is, how you can serve it, how you can drink and mix it, and anything that comes in between. That said, let’s start by taking a look at what sake is.
What Is Sake?
Sake, a beloved gem of Japan, really has a special place in the world of liquor, mainly for its cultural significance and nuanced flavors. Often wrongly labeled as “rice wine,” it’s actually more akin to beer, so you don't want to drink it like you would a more traditional wine.
Sake presents itself in a clear, inviting palette, with shades ranging from pale straw to golden hues, similar to a fine white wine. Its taste embodies a harmonious blend of subtle sweetness and a touch of umami, reminiscent of seaweed or mushrooms.
Sake’s appeal lies in its versatility, making it a lovely companion to various cuisines, from sushi to grilled fare. It has found its place in both formal ceremonies and casual gatherings, and is deeply intertwined with Japanese culture, symbolizing tradition and sociability.
Whether enjoyed in quiet contemplation or shared with friends, sake is a testament to the art of fermentation.
What Is the Alcohol Content of Sake?
Sake typically has an alcohol content that falls in the range of 13% to 17%. This places it in the same alcohol by volume (ABV) range as many wines, making it a versatile beverage that you can mix with a ton of different occasions and culinary pairings.
If you’re looking to get buzzed by a more full-bodied and robust sake, feel free to get one that touches or even exceeds 17%!
How to Serve Sake?
Serving sake is an art that actually requires a lot of attention to detail. To start, you’ll need a tokkuri (a sake carafe) and ochoko (small sake cups). Sake is traditionally served slightly warm, chilled, or at room temperature, depending on the type. If you’re just looking for a quick serving, you’ll find that room temperature is your best bet!
For warm sake, use a small container filled with hot water to heat the tokkuri. Pour sake until it overflows and warms the container, then pour for guests. Warm sake pairs well with dishes like grilled meats and tempura.
Chilled sake is delightful in summer and complements sushi, sashimi, and lighter fare. Store it in the fridge or briefly in an ice bath. Serve in an ochoko on a saucer to catch any drips. Here are the temperature ranges you should be aiming for:
Chilled (5-15°C/41-59°F): For a refreshing and crisp taste, especially suitable for light or delicate sakes, especially on a warm day.
Room Temperature (15-20°C/59-68°F): This is the go-to choice for a balanced flavor profile and works well with a wide variety of sake styles.
Warm (40-45°C/104-113°F): Warming sake enhances its umami and is particularly enjoyable with heartier sakes like Junmai or Junmai Ginjo.
What Is a Serving Size of Sake?
A customary serving size for sake is a precise 1.5-ounce (45 ml) pour, ensuring that the ochoko (sake cup) is filled to approximately 70% of its capacity. This isn’t just about rules; it’s the sacred sake decree that ensures you can appreciate the drink’s charm without turning your evening into an unintentional adventure in tipsiness! It’ll also let you have a discerning tasting experience without overwhelming the palate.
Can You Drink Sake Straight?
Certainly, sake can be had whichever way you want, and a lot of people do want to have it straight. Sipping sake without dilution or mixing allows you to appreciate its pure flavors and aromas.
The choice to drink sake straight reflects a deep respect for the craftsmanship that goes into its production, as well as an opportunity to experience the beverage’s unique characteristics with unadulterated clarity.
What Are the Best Mixers for Sake?
Sake is traditionally enjoyed on its own or with complementary Japanese dishes, but if you’re looking to mix it, ginger ale, fruit juices like lychee or passion fruit, or even a dash of sparkling water can add a refreshing twist while preserving its unique character.
What Other Liquors Go Well With Sake?
Sake’s versatility means you can pair it with practically any other liquor you want. For cocktails, combining sake with vodka or gin can yield interesting results, while a classic cocktail like the sake martini blends gin and sake. You can even harmonize it with light beers! Plus, you can add a theme of Eastern liquor to your night by including Soju, which is like the Sake of Korea.
What Are the Best Sake Recipes?
When it comes to recipes for sake, there’s only one recipe you’ll need – a sake martini:
Ingredients:
- 2.5 ounces of sake
- 1 ounce of gin
Instructions:
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Pour in 2.5 ounces of sake and 1 ounce of gin.
- Stir well until thoroughly chilled.
- Strain into a martini glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon or a few drops of plum wine.
How to Prevent a Sake Hangover?
To steer clear of a sake hangover, remember the age-old wisdom: moderation is key. Enjoy your sake slowly and savor its flavors, but don’t overindulge. Stay hydrated with water between sips, and pair it with some snacks to cushion the effects.
Also, go for a high-quality sake, as it tends to be easier on the head. Before you retire, have a good meal to help absorb the alcohol. Listen to your body and know your limits.
Drink Your Sake the Right Way
Well, looks like we’ve uncovered just about everything there is to know about sake. From its serving traditions to the art of preventing the dreaded hangover.
We looked at how versatile it is, how you can mix it with other beverages, and even the best sake recipe in history! Whichever way you love to have your sake, though, just remember to keep things to a moderate level and you’ll have an easier time functioning in society the next day.
