What are the two main categories of sake?
- Basic (aka Futsū-shu)
- Premium
Basic sake is often mass-produced, while premium sake is crafted with more attention to detail and higher-quality ingredients and has several grades.
True or False:
All sake is brewed using the same rice polishing ratio.
False
Different sake types require different polishing ratios, which affect the flavor and classification of the sake.
What does ‘Junmai’ indicate in sake?
Pure rice sake with no added alcohol.
Junmai sake is made using only rice, water, yeast, and kōji, without any additional alcohol.
Fill in the blank:
Sake with a polishing ratio of 50% or less is called ______.
Daiginjō
Daiginjō is a highly polished premium sake known for its refined flavor and aroma.
What is ‘Ginjō’ sake known for?
- Fruity and floral aromas
- Light and smooth texture
Ginjō sake is brewed with rice polished to at least 60%, offering a delicate and complex flavor profile.
List two characteristics of ‘Honjōzō’ sake.
- Light and refreshing taste
- Small amount of distilled alcohol added
Honjōzō is a type of premium sake where a small quantity of distilled alcohol is added to enhance flavor and aroma.
What does the term ‘Futsū-shu’ refer to?
Table sake or basic sake
Futsū-shu is the most commonly produced and consumed sake.
True or False:
Premium sake must always be served chilled.
False
While premium sake is often served chilled to appreciate its delicate flavors, some types can also be enjoyed warm.
What distinguishes ‘Nigori’ sake from other types?
Cloudy appearance due to rice particles.
Nigori sake is unfiltered or coarsely filtered, resulting in a cloudy appearance and a sweeter taste.
What is ‘Koshu’ sake?
Aged sake
Koshu sake is matured for several years, resulting in a deeper color and complex flavors.
What is the significance of the rice polishing ratio in sake production?
It determines the purity and quality of the sake.
A lower polishing ratio means more of the rice grain has been removed, usually resulting in a higher-quality sake.
Fill in the blank:
Sake with a polishing ratio of 60% or less is known as ______.
Ginjō
Ginjō sake is characterized by its polished rice, leading to elegant flavors and aromas.
Name two types of premium sake.
- Junmai Daiginjō
- Ginjō
Premium sake types are distinguished by their rice polishing ratio and brewing processes, offering superior taste and aroma.
True or False:
All sake is filtered before bottling.
False
Nigori sake is coarsely filtered, not completely unfiltered.
What factor primarily influences the flavor profile of sake?
Rice polishing ratio
The level of rice polishing impacts the purity and concentration of flavors, with premium sakes having more refined profiles.
Briefly describe futsū-shu sake.
- Clear and colourless in appearance (though some are pale yellow or green in color);
- 15–17% abv, slightly sweet and lightly acidic with delicate lactic and fruity flavors.
What distinguishes Futsū-shu from premium sake grades?
Lower rice polishing standards.
Futsū-shu is often referred to as ‘table sake’ and doesn’t adhere to the strict polishing and ingredient standards of premium grades.
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What is Sake? An Overview27
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Main Ingredients in Sake16
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Sake Production: Rice Preparation20
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Sake Production: Kōji Production14
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Sake Production: Fermentation16
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Sake Production: Filtration and Bottling13
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Principal Categories and Grades of Sake17
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Specialty & Premium Grades of Sake25
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Controlled Production Steps15
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Japanese Labelling Terms11
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Sake Storage Best Practices23
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Sake Service Methods23
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Common Faults in Sake14
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Food and Sake Pairing22
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Tasting Sake (WSET SAT)17
