How to Drink Sparkling Sake

Sparkling sake is a type of sake that has been carbonated, making it fizzy and refreshing. It is a popular beverage in Japan and is being increasingly enjoyed worldwide. If you are interested in drinking sparkling sake, we share more about how to serve it and the different flavour options you can enjoy.

What is Sparkling Sake?

Sparkling sake is a type of Japanese rice wine that is carbonated, making it a fizzy drink, similar to Champagne or Prosecco.

Sparkling sake is becoming increasingly popular both in Japan and around the world as a refreshing and festive drink. It is often used for celebrations and special occasions. Like other sake drinks, it can be paired with a variety of foods, including sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes.

How is Sparkling Sake Made?

There are a couple of methods for making sparkling sake; carbonation or fermentation.

Sparkling sake is made from the same basic ingredients as traditional sake, which include rice, water, and koji mould.

To make it into sparkling sake, the sake can be left to undergo a secondary fermentation process that produces carbon dioxide, which is what makes it fizzy.

Alternatively, carbon dioxide can be injected into bottled sake to make it sparkling.

How to Serve Sparkling Sake

Drinking sparkling sake is a unique and refreshing experience. By following these tips, you can ensure that you get the most out of your sparkling sake and appreciate its flavours and aromas fully.

Chill the Sparkling Sake Bottle

Before serving sparkling sake, you should chill the bottle, as this will enhance the flavour and ensure the bubbles are as crisp and refreshing as possible. You can do this by putting the bottle in the fridge for a few hours or popping it into an ice bucket for 30 minutes before serving.

Open the Sparkling Sake Bottle

Sparkling sake is carbonated, so you should take care when opening the bottle. Avoid shaking it or disturbing the bottle too much, as you don’t want the bubbles to fizz over. Gently twist the cork or cap of the bottle until it comes loose. If it pops too loudly, it might be a sign that the sake is too warm or that there is too much carbonation.

Choose a Sake Glass For Sparkling Sake

The glass you use to drink sparkling sake can impact the taste and experience. A Champagne flute or a wine glass with a narrow rim is ideal as it will capture the aroma and concentrate the bubbles.

Avoid using a wide-rimmed glass or a beer mug, as it will disperse the bubbles quickly, and the aroma will not be as pronounced.

While a Champagne flute is recommended, you could also use a traditional sake cup to enjoy smaller sips with that classic aesthetic.

Pour the Sparkling Sake

When pouring sparkling sake, tilt the glass slightly and pour the sake down the side. Start by pouring a small amount of sake into the glass, and then let the foam settle before pouring more. This will help to prevent spills and ensure that you get a good mix of bubbles and sake. Avoid pouring the sake directly into the centre of the glass, as this will cause the bubbles to dissipate quickly.

Enjoying Sparkling Sake

When enjoying your sparkling sake, take a moment to savour each sip, appreciating the aroma and taste of the sake. Sip the sake slowly and allow it to linger in your mouth to experience the flavours and texture fully. Sparkling sake is best enjoyed as an aperitif or with light dishes such as sushi or sashimi.

What Does Sparkling Sake Taste Like?

Sparkling sake can vary in sweetness and flavour, ranging from dry and crisp to sweet and fruity. The exact taste will depend on the brand and flavour you have chosen, as well as the production method of that product.

Generally speaking, it is characterised by a crisp, clean flavour with a subtle sweetness and mild acidity. Some sparkling sakes may have notes of fruit or floral aromas, while others may have a more toasty flavour profile.

There are many flavoured sparkling sake options to choose from if you want to enjoy a particular taste.

Popular Flavours of Sparkling Sake

There are many different varieties and flavours of sparkling sake available; some of the most popular include:

Yuzu Sparkling Sake

This type of sparkling sake is infused with yuzu, a citrus fruit that is commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It has a sweet and tangy flavour that pairs well with sushi and other seafood dishes.

Peach Sparkling Sake

Peach sparkling sake has a sweet and fruity flavour that is perfect for warm summer days. It is often served chilled and can be paired with light appetizers or desserts.

Lychee Sparkling Sake

Lychee sparkling sake has a delicate and floral flavour that is reminiscent of the popular Asian fruit. It is often served with spicy dishes or desserts.

Strawberry Sparkling Sake

Strawberry sparkling sake is a sweet and refreshing sake that has a fruity flavour that pairs well with desserts or light appetizers.

Green Tea Sparkling Sake

This type of sparkling sake is infused with green tea, giving it a subtle and earthy flavour. It is often served with sushi or other seafood dishes.

How Long Does Sparkling Sake Last?

Unopened sparkling sake is best consumed within a few months of purchase, although its exact shelf life will depend on the brand, production and storage conditions. To extend the shelf life of sparkling sake, it is recommended to store it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat.

Once opened, sparkling sake should be consumed within a few days to ensure maximum freshness and quality. Sparkling sake is carbonated, and once the bottle is opened, the bubbles will start dissipating, which can impact the flavour and make the sake feel flat.

If you have any leftover sparkling sake, you should store it in the refrigerator and consume it within a couple of days. To preserve the bubbles, you can use a wine stopper or a sparkling wine bottle closure.

Where to Buy Sparkling Sake in the UK

You can find sparkling sake in the UK at good oriental supermarkets, such as Oriental Mart. We stock sparkling sake at our Nottingham store or you can buy sparkling sake online to be delivered to your door.

We hope this guide to sparkling sake has got you in the mood to try a sip! If you want to enjoy sparkling sake with sushi or to celebrate a special occasion, browse our full range of sparkling sake and regular sake at Oriental Mart to discover the perfect flavour for you.