The Role of Sake Around the Globe
Although it’s still quite new to people in many countries, the presence of sake around the world is expanding. Let’s explore the rich culture and meaningful traditions surrounding sake. Where Is Sake From? Sake is a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from purified water and fermented rice. Although each variety has its own unique flavor profile, […]
Seasonal Guide for Food Pairings Throughout the Year
Sake is low in acidity and free of tannins, opening it up to a range of food pairing avenues. Sake pairs well with many dishes, but considering your dish’s flavors and aromas can guide you in selecting the ideal variety for your meal. Discover some of the best seasonal food pairings with sake. The Importance […]
How Is Sake Made?
Have you ever sipped sake and wondered how fermented rice could produce such a smooth, unique drink? As sake experts, we can tell you. Let’s explore the sake-making process. What Is in Sake? Traditional sake recipes are fairly simple, consisting of just a few ingredients. Typical sake ingredients include: Some brewmasters will also add brewers […]
Throw the Perfect Dinner Party With Sake
A dinner party is a great way to bring friends and family together, but it can be difficult to plan when you’re feeling uninspired in the kitchen. This quick guide to sake for dinner party menus will provide some simple food suggestions and sake pairings you can use to get the creative juices flowing. How […]
Foods to Pair With Sake
Sake, an alcoholic beverage made from polished and fermented rice, has been a central piece of the Japanese culinary tradition for centuries. It has a smooth mouthfeel and clean, sweet taste you’d be hard-pressed to find in other drinks. Recently, sake’s popularity has exploded in the Western culinary scene. It’s always been a staple at […]
What Is Sake?
As the national beverage of Japan, sake is rich in history, tradition and flavor. It’s noncarbonated and characterized by its pale yellow or green color, mildly sweet flavor, and high alcohol content. Most sakes sit between 18% and 20% alcohol by volume (ABV). Enjoy sake on its own or mix it with other ingredients to […]
Sake vs. Soju
One of the benefits of an ever more interconnected world is the opportunity to find new things you never even knew you wanted to try. While Japanese sake is a familiar drink to most people today, Korean soju is relatively new to American audiences. Though they may resemble each other, soju is not the same […]
What Is the Difference Between Sake, Cooking Sake, and Mirin?
Did you know that Japanese brewers use the same basic ingredients in the malting of both sake and mirin? Koji mold is the catalyst that produces alcohols from polished rice grains. It is also used to make popular Japanese seasonings such as soy sauce and miso. Authentic Japanese rice-based alcoholic beverages such as sake contain […]
Sake Versus Wine
In the worldwide family of alcoholic beverages, sake and wine are more like cousins than siblings. The differences between these two drinks are profound, from their distinct brewing processes down to the best glasses to serve each in. Both novice to experienced beverage connoisseurs benefit from understanding the differences in language, tasting principles, and terminology […]
9 Unique Appetizers to Serve With Sake
When it comes to pairing sake and food, there are no wrong answers. But it can always help to have a little guidance. Whether you’re new to the world of sake or looking to deepen your knowledge, we’re here to help you out. Here are our nine best appetizers to serve with sake to get […]
Common Myths About Sake
There are several misconceptions about sake, a popular rice-brewed beverage, in Western culture. In this guide, Takara Sake USA discusses the truth behind the four most common myths about this drink. Here’s what you need to know about sake: Myth 1: Sake Is a Spirit This myth originates from the fact that many Western bars […]
What is CHU-HI?
“CHU-HI” has become a major cocktail in Japan. We can see a wide variety of CHU-HI being served at Japanese Restaurants (Izakaya) daily. What does “CHU-HI” stand for? It is shortened for “Shochu Highball.” Highball is a cocktail term referring to “a beverage made by distilled alcohol such as whiskey and gin mixed with soda.” […]
Charcuterie Boards and Sake
You’re likely familiar with the classic pairing of wine and cheese, but have you ever considered what other drinks can pair with charcuterie? Sake and cheese boards offer a great change of pace. With a wide range of flavors and types of sake to consider, the opportunities to pair them with your favorite cheeses are limitless. This […]
Why Sake and Sushi Are the Perfect Combo
Both originating from Japan, sake and sushi are unique, flavorful refreshments that enchant the tastebuds and leave you craving more. However, have you ever considered trying them together? Those unfamiliar with their flavor profiles may find it difficult to determine if they’d be a good match. Is sake good with sushi? Discover why these two […]
Perfect Occasions to Serve Sake
Are you looking to enhance your beverage menu for a party or event? Serving sake at gatherings is an excellent way to do so. Whether you’re planning a holiday party, hosting a summer cookout or just relaxing with friends, read on for some ways to celebrate with sake! What Is Sake? Sake is a Japanese […]
Quick Facts on Sake
Whether you’re a long-time lover of sake, are interested in trying it or have never heard of it before, learning about sake can open your eyes to the beverage’s interesting history, giving you a newfound appreciation for it. What Is Sake? Originating from Japan, sake is an alcoholic beverage created from fermented rice. This noncarbonated […]
Sake Gift Guide
Perhaps you’re trying to decide what to get someone who likes Japanese culture, or you’re surprising a loved one with a birthday or Christmas present. Whatever the intention, a bottle of sake is an excellent gift. Sake is a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice, usually characterized by a sweet flavor and pale yellow […]
What Type of Sake Is Your Perfect Match?
With multiple grades and tastes of sake to try, you may not know where to begin. Luckily, we’re here to help. This handy sake for beginners guide explores some must-try varieties so you can find your perfect sake match. Let’s dive in! What Type of Sake Should I Get? When searching for your ideal variety, […]
Make Sake a Part of Your Wedding Experience
If you’re planning to serve alcohol at your wedding, you might consider expanding your drink menu beyond basic wine, beer, and spirits. For a rich and distinctive alcoholic beverage, try incorporating sake into your big day. Learn some common wedding sake traditions in Japan, the origins and symbols of this unique drink, and different ways […]
Sho Chiku Bai (松竹梅)
Takara’s flagship sake, Sho Chiku Bai, takes its name from elements in nature that symbolize age-old Japanese traditions and beliefs
