Author: Brad

  • The Art of Sake Rice Polishing: The Secret to Premium Sake

    The Art of Sake Rice Polishing: The Secret to Premium Sake

    “Behind every sip of sake lies a story, a craft, a tradition.” This was a mantra I lived by as a sake advisor at a bustling sushi restaurant in California. Although I’ve never set foot in Japan, the essence of its culture, embodied in the art of sake-making, has always been close to my heart.…

  • Namazake: The Unpasteurized Gem of Sake World

    Namazake: The Unpasteurized Gem of Sake World

    If you’re a sake enthusiast or even a curious beginner, you’ve probably heard of Namazake. This unpasteurized sake, also known as “nama” or “fresh sake,” is a unique and exciting variant of the traditional Japanese rice wine that we all know and love. But what makes Namazake so special? Let’s dive into the world of…

  • Honjozo Sake: History, Brewing, Pairings, and Top Brands

    Honjozo Sake: History, Brewing, Pairings, and Top Brands

    Welcome to the world of Honjozo Sake, a delightful variant of the traditional Japanese rice wine that’s as intriguing as it is delicious. Honjozo, or as we like to call it, the “light and lively” of the sake world, is a special designation sake that’s fortified with a small amount of distilled alcohol, also known…

  • Ginjo Sake – Unveiling Exquisite Craftsmanship and Delicate Flavors

    Ginjo Sake – Unveiling Exquisite Craftsmanship and Delicate Flavors

    Hello, Sake enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the world of Ginjo Sake, a premium sake that’s as fun to explore as it is to say. Go ahead, try it. Ginjo. Rolls off the tongue, doesn’t it? Ginjo Sake is a relatively new kid on the block, having only been widely produced for about 50 years.…

  • The Exquisite World of Daiginjo Sake: A Guide to Premium Pleasure

    The Exquisite World of Daiginjo Sake: A Guide to Premium Pleasure

    Sake, often referred to as nihonshu in Japan, is more than just a beverage. It’s a symbol of Japanese culture, tradition, and craftsmanship. From its humble beginnings in the rice fields to the intricate sake making process, this rice-based alcoholic drink has been a staple in Japanese households and ceremonies for centuries. My Personal Favorite…

  • Nigori Sake: The Cloudy Elixir of Joy

    Nigori Sake: The Cloudy Elixir of Joy

    Have you ever had a drink that was so good, you wished you could bathe in it? Well, that’s how I felt the first time I tasted Nigori Sake. This Japanese rice wine, known for its cloudy appearance, is a delightful treat that can turn any ordinary day into a mini vacation. But what exactly…

  • The Ultimate Guide to Junmai Sake: Pure, Unadulterated, and Absolutely Delicious

    The Ultimate Guide to Junmai Sake: Pure, Unadulterated, and Absolutely Delicious

    Welcome, sake enthusiasts and curious readers! Today, we’re diving into the world of Junmai, a pure rice sake that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history. So, grab a glass and let’s get started! The Meaning of Junmai Junmai, when translated, means “pure rice.” This term is used to describe sake that is made…

  • Discover the Health Benefits of Sake: A Comprehensive Guide

    Discover the Health Benefits of Sake: A Comprehensive Guide

    Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s been creating a buzz among sake enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike — the health benefits of sake. Yes, you heard it right! This iconic Japanese rice wine isn’t just a pleasure for the palate, it’s also packed with surprising health benefits. But hold on, we’re not encouraging you…

  • Discover the Secrets of Sake Grades: A Fascinating Exploration

    Discover the Secrets of Sake Grades: A Fascinating Exploration

    Sake, the signature Japanese beverage, has been delighting palates worldwide with its unique taste. Understanding sake grades is an essential step in your journey of sake appreciation, giving you the knowledge to choose the right sake for any occasion. What are Sake Grades? Sake grades provide a system to classify different types of sake based…

  • How to Drink Sake: A Beginner’s Guide to Japan’s National Beverage

    How to Drink Sake: A Beginner’s Guide to Japan’s National Beverage

    Japan’s beloved beverage, sake, has long since taken the world by storm. From the traditional izakayas in Tokyo to the chicest bars in New York City, it’s clear that sake is more than just a drink – it’s a cultural experience. But for many first-timers, the question that often comes up is, “How exactly do…

  • What is Sake Made Of?

    What is Sake Made Of?

    Whether you’re a sake connoisseur or a curious novice, the question that often arises is, “What is sake made of?” This article will answer that question comprehensively, delving into the rich and fascinating world of this traditional Japanese beverage. The Essence of Sake: A Brief Overview Sake is a fermented beverage native to Japan, often…

  • How is Sake Made? The Art of Sake Brewing!

    How is Sake Made? The Art of Sake Brewing!

    Welcome to SakeSphere, your digital izakaya and go-to source for all things sake! Pull up a chair, take a sip, and let’s dive deep into the fascinating world of sake brewing. The Magic Begins: Rice Polishing First things first, let’s talk about rice. Not just any rice, but sake rice, which is larger and contains…