Are you a beginner to Japan’s national drink, or perhaps you have already developed a taste? Finding recommendations for the best sake always expands the whole experience.
Much like a wine or beer, you will find numerous types of sake to choose from and enjoy. Each variety appeals to different preferences and tastes. There is no simple answer for picking the ideal sake for every event or everybody’s tastebuds.
Just recently, a new brand called Sakari launched five different types of sake products. The sake brand has been established under the idea of connecting person-to-person and humans-to-nature, and its main theme is joy.
Introducing Sakari: A Vegan, Gluten and Preservative-Free Sake
Sakari was founded by Nihonsakari Co., Ltd., a Japanese sake brewery established in 1889. The company has started the sales of its new brand in Asian countries, Europe, America, and Oceania in November 2021.
The founders of Sakari wanted to create the future of Japanese society through sake, collaboration, and study—the same spirit that moves them until today. The five founders of Sakari are now remembered in their logo: five sake glasses that create a Sakura flower. Since its inception, Sakari has been the official supplier of the Imperial Household.
What is Included in a Sakari Sake?
Sakari brews their sakes in their home in Nishinomiya, Japan, blessed with the best water and rice. This is what their sakes are consist of:
- Rice – Sakari uses local rice referred to as Yamada Nishiki. It is popular as “the king of sake rice.” The rice has a big grain and features the best characteristics for brewing the sake.
- Yeast – Sakari utilizes different types of yeast (over 600 types) to make the exquisite and unforgettable aromas of their sakes. They use their original yeast for most of their sake, which exists only inside the Sakari brewery.
- Koji – Kogi refers to the mold enabling the conversion of starch into glucose. Did you know that it’s a vital ingredient for fermentation? During the process, the enzymes inside koji create the amino acids of the sake.
- Water – Ultimately, Sakari uses miyamizu, subsoil water from the Rokko Mountains. This water springs out in Nishinomiya. The water’s mineral content makes for a vital ingredient for crisp, clean, and superior sake.
The Five Sakari Bottles You Should Try
In this section, we will take a look at the five sake products from Sakari. Currently, Sakari has five product offers:
- Sakari No. 11 – Junmai Daiginjo Sake
Made with rice polished to at least 50% of its original size, daiginjo is often the most valued bottling of the sake brewery, representing the height of the brewmaster’s capability. This sake provides floral notes, a light body, and a graceful finish. Well-balanced and dry, it pairs best with appetizers. - Sakari No. 12 – Daiginjo Sake
Joy can be seen in the most unexpected places. This sake features a fruity and elegant aroma. Sakari No. 12 is the award-winning sake made from Japanese rice, along with the purest water from Mount Rokko. - Sakari No. 13 – Junmai Ginjo Sake
Junmai Ginjo translates to rice and water milled to 60%. It can be fresh and fruity to dry and rice-y. The Sakari No. 13 is ideal for the sushi counter, balanced and clean cuisines for easy sipping. - Sakari No. 14 – Junmai Sake
Junmail refers to a sake milled to 70%, but in the broad sense, it means “pure rice sake.” Sakari No. 14 can be your trusted companion with its smooth and simple tasty that can be easily paired with any type of food. - Sakari No. 21 – Yuzu Sake
Yuzu is a Japanese lemon used in most culinary applications, from puddings to sweets and vinegar. The rind and juice of yuzu are added to the sake, making a citrusy, refreshing, low-alcohol drink.
Which of these Sakari sakes are you willing to try? We are certain that at least one or two will lead to an exhilarating gourmet discovery, widening your interest in Japanese culture!
