TYPES OF SAKE
JUNMAI
Literally means “pure rice”: it is composed of rice, water, koji and yeast. This traditional style of sake was mastered by the end of the 17th century and is generally rich in umami and complex in flavor. It is considered versatile because of its wider range of serving temperatures.
TOKUBETSU JUNMAI
Meaning “special Junmai sake” and it is created with rice that is polished to at least 60%. The use of sake-specific rice or other use of legally recognized special production method would be labeled Tokubetsu. The sake has a gentle taste and a soft texture.
JUNMAI GINJO
This style is characterized by a bright aroma, fruity tastes and delicate body. Classified as sake made from rice polished down to at least 60% and often employing a special process including lower-temperature fermentation and special strains of yeast. The term “Junmai” is used to differentiate between “pure rice” sake and sake with brewer’s alcohol added.
JUNMAI DAIGINJO
Dai means great, hence, “Great Ginjo.” Daiginjo is made from rice polished down to at least 50% or less and also fermented in lower-temperature for a long period of time. It often use sake-specific rice. The term “Junmai” is used to differentiate between “pure rice” sake and sake with brewer’s alcohol added.
NAMA
Unpasteurized.
NIGORI
Unfiltered (coarsely filtered) sake, with a milky white appearance.
KIMOTO
Kimoto represent the most traditional method of sake making, perfected in the 17th century. It uses a fermentation starter that employs the laborious task of pounding streamed rice into a paste. It is known to display complex but well-balanced flavors, with enhanced umami and acidity.
YAMAHAI
This type of sake making evolved from the Kimoto method was discovered in 1909 by scientists. It is known for developing complexity and deep flavors equal to Kimoto style sake.
GENSHU
Genshu is undiluted sake. After filtration, sake has an alcohol content of around 19%+. Most sake on the market has been diluted with water down to 12-16%. Genshu is full-bodied and has a rich taste.
