Sake is an alcoholic Japanese beverage revered the world over, despite the name simply meaning ‘alcohol’ to the Japanese. A fermented rice wine, it is produced by a brewing process similar to beer and is available in many different varieties. It has been produced in Japan for over 1000 years, although more premium varieties are more recent endeavours.
We stock a range of very special sakes here at Fine Food Specialist, ranging from those that are dry through to the more sweet and floral. Quality grades are determined by the degree to which the rice is ‘polished’ which refers to how much of the rice grain is milled away to reveal its starchy core.
Takara Shirakabegura Kimoto Junmai Sake is slightly creamy with a touch of acidity. The nose has the sweetness of banana, while the flavour is lightly floral with hints of melon. It pairs well with full-bodied Chinese dishes.
Those new to sake should try the Ozeki, which is dry, with a well-balanced and full-bodied flavour. It tastes amazing chilled but can also be warmed – note the way this enhances different flavours.
The Takara Shirakabegura Junmai Daiginjo Sake is one of the highest-graded sakes on the market with a fruity and aromatic flavour and subtle undertones of banana, peach and persimmon. The dry, spicy flavour is a perfect match with lighter dishes such as sushi and sashimi.
Drinking sake is different from that used in cooking, so make sure to spend time savouring and sipping these special sakes.
Our sakes also make excellent gifts for the discerning drinker.
