How do you serve SAKI Japanese rice wine?

Serving sake involves several key steps to fully enjoy its distinct flavors and aromas:

1. Select Appropriate Glassware:

- Ochoko Cups: Small, handle-less cups traditionally used for sake.

- Wine Glasses: Suitable for appreciating the aroma and taste of sake.

- Shot Glasses: Acceptable but not the most traditional option.

2. Cooling:

- Cold or Room Temperature: Serving temperature affects the taste of sake.

- Most sake is best served chilled (around 50°F/10°C).

- Some types, like Junmai Ginjo, are often enjoyed at room temperature.

3. Pouring Technique:

- Hold the sake bottle with one hand and the serving cup in the other.

- Keep the cup low, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the table.

- Pour slowly and smoothly, allowing the sake to flow into the cup.

- Continue pouring until the cup is about 80% full.

4. Enjoying:

- Gently swirl the sake in the cup to release the aroma.

- Take small sips, allowing the sake to linger in your mouth and appreciate its flavors.

5. Etiquette and Toasts:

- When offered a cup of sake, it is customary to say "Kampai" (Cheers).

- It is polite to hold the cup with both hands and bring it close to your mouth when drinking.

6. Refreshing Cups:

- It is common practice to refill cups when empty, unless they are left half-full as a signal to the server to stop pouring.

7. Pairing with Food:

- Sake pairs well with various Japanese dishes, including seafood, sushi, and grilled items.

Remember, serving sake is both an art and a cultural experience. Embrace the traditions and etiquette to fully appreciate the intricacies and flavors of this Japanese rice wine.