Learn About Sake

RICE BECOMES SOMETHING MUCH, MUCH MORE

How Sake Is Made

Not a wine, not a spirits and actually crafted closer to a process like brewing beer yet not a beer either. The magic of rice, koji and water allow for a simple grain of rice becomes something in a class all in its own.

1. Rice is Harvested

There are many types of sake rice that can be chose for brewing,  all contribute to different flavor profiles.

2. Rice is Polished

The rice grains are polished to remove the outer layers, leaving the starchy center in tact.

3. Rice Washing & Soaking

Rice is washed to remove the any powder or residue from polishing and then the rice is soaked.

4. Rice Steaming

The rice is steamed for about an hour. The target temperature of the rice is 100 degrees Celsius.

5. Koji Production

15-20% of the steamed rice is taken to a special room where Koji mold will be slowly cultivated.

6. Yeast Starter

In a small tank, some of the koji rice, steamed rice, yeast and water are combined to start fermentation.

7. Three Step Additions

Over 4 days, the amount of water, koji rice, steamed rice and water are gradually increased.

8. Main Fermentation Mash

During the 30-40 day process, koji and yeast are converting the rice's to sugar; at the same time the sugar is being converted into alcohol.

9. Pressing & Filtering

The mash is pressed to separate solids from the liquid. For nigori sake, the raw sake may go through a course filtering or rice solids may be added back in to achieve the style.

10. Dilution

Majority of sake are diluted with water after filtration to reduce the alcohol content. The average sake ABV is around 16%.

11. Bottling

The sake is bottled (or canned!) after dilution. Most sake are also pasteurized either before or after bottling to preserve freshness.

Illustrations by Julie Qiu

TO SIPPING YOUR OWN WAY

How to Enjoy Sake

Time - rice and water and tradition, slowed and still, anchored with each sip. The ancient traditions of sake create a timeless moment for all who sip, yet Tozai also invites you to enjoy the sake of now, for today's moments. So drink deep, however you choose to enjoy.

Most premium sake is best enjoyed slightly chilled. Heating premium sake can mask the nuanced flavors.
If you prefer warm sake, our favorite Tozai to try warmed is Typhoon.

Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box
Bento Box

Bento Box

Blossom of Peace
Blossom of Peace
Blossom of Peace
Blossom of Peace

Blossom of Peace

Carafe & Ochoko Set
Carafe & Ochoko Set
Carafe & Ochoko Set
Carafe & Ochoko Set
Carafe & Ochoko Set
Carafe & Ochoko Set
Carafe & Ochoko Set
Carafe & Ochoko Set
Carafe & Ochoko Set
Carafe & Ochoko Set
Carafe & Ochoko Set
Carafe & Ochoko Set

Carafe & Ochoko Set

Chopsticks
Chopsticks
Chopsticks
Chopsticks

Chopsticks

TO A BETTER-FOR-YOU BEVERAGE

Benefits of Sake

Premium Japanese sake has a range of healthful benefits. So sip unapologetically.

  • Low Sugar - less sugar than most other alcohols
  • Low in Tartaric Acid - The primary acid in wine that causes acid reflux and erosion of teeth enamel
  • Free of Tannins and Sulfites - For those looking to avoid wine headaches
  • Gluten Free - Good for those who are sensitive or celiac
  • 80% Water Based - Arguably more hydrating than other alcoholic beverages
  • Contains Amino Acids, Enzymes & Antioxidants - Sake contains numerous amino acids, healthful enzymes and antioxidants, like Ferulic acids, that can prevent osteoporosis, improve skin texture and contribute to other health benefits.