Japanese shochu has quickly developed into one of my favourite spirits for its versatility and cornucopia of base ingredients. One of the best I’ve tried lately is Iichiko, a refreshing mugi (barely) shochu produced by the Sanwa Shurui Company in Oita Prefecture. Light, airy and aromatic, it’s not hard to see why Iichiko is one of the leading honkaku (authentic) shochus in the world. Continue reading “Iichiko Shochu Review: A Spirit That’s As Great As Its Name!”
Japanese sake is experiencing a renaissance in the west. More information is available for demystifying Japan’s national alcohol, while sake-related organisations, breweries and sommeliers are breaking down misconceptions about nihonshu and experimenting with a variety of amazing flavours.
One of the most dynamic western markets for sake is the UK and there are some great places to get it if you know where to look. With that said, here are six of the best places to get your sake fix in the UK! Continue reading “6 Of The Best Places To Buy Sake In The UK”
There’s a drink revolution going on in the UK and it’s all to do with Japanese sake. And if you want to experience it firsthand, then London is one of the best places to step into the world of nihonshu at Moto, the UK’s first independent sake bar and shop. While sake has always been a staple of menus in Japanese restaurants, Moto has taken it a step further by making the alcohol the star of the show and the results are electrifying. Continue reading “Step Into Sake Heaven With A Visit To The UK’s First Independent Sake Bar And Shop Moto”
It’s an exciting time for the sake industry in the UK. A steady surge in popularity has led to consumers seeking more information about Japan’s national alcohol and one of the best places to start your journey into the realm of nihonshu is in the UK’s first sake brewery, Kanpai. Located in Peckham, Kanpai Brewery is the definition of a hidden gem.
Continue reading “Experience The Magic Of The UK’s Sake Revolution At Kanpai Brewery In London”
Awamori is one of the most unique Japanese beverages in the world. Made in Okinawa, awamori shares similarities with nihonshu and shochu, but it only uses black koji mould and Thai indica rice in the production process. The result is a powerful distilled spirit that can go as high as a 43% ABV.
I recently had the pleasure of trying my first awamori at a Japan House London event that featured a tasting session of rare Japanese drinks. The Higa Zanpa White, created by the Higa Shuzo brewery, ranks among the most memorable tipple that I’ve drank so far! Continue reading “Higa Zanpa White Awamori Review: The Perfect Introductory Drink To Okinawan Moonshine”
In the UK, sake is experiencing a steady increase in popularity and consumers are starting to seek more information about it. And as the interest grows, it’s creating the opportunity for lesser known Japanese drinks to be discovered like shochu. And a venue that’s the perfect setting for showcasing the brilliance of shochu is Japan House London.
I recently attended Shochu And Awamori: The Spirits Of Japan, an event which served as an introduction into the wonderful world of Japanese spirits. A collaboration between Japan London House, the Kagoshima Shochu Makers Association (KSMA) and Japan’s National Tax Agency (NTA), the event was truly enlightening. Continue reading “Shochu And Awamori: The Spirits Of Japan Review: An Enlightening Event From Japan House London”
Connecting with people through social media is one of the most effective ways to build relationships with people in your industry. And with Yamato Magazine specialising in collaborating with Japan related businesses, it’s no surprise that you’ll find the publication on social media as well! Continue reading “Connecting With Yamato Magazine On Social Media (Collaborations Welcome!)”
There are certain sake breweries that acquire a reputation for having some of the best tasting nihonshu in the world. The Asahi brewery (not to be confused with the beer brand!) based in Yamaguchi, is known for making ultra-premium junmai daiginjo under the Dassai brand. I’ve heard a lot of great things about Dassai and finally got the chance to try their cream of the crop sake – Dassai 23. Continue reading “Dassai 23 Review: A Glorious Junmai Daiginjo With A 23% Sex Appeal”
Japanese moonshine
25-year-old awamori
shared with family
Japanese sake offers drinkers some of the most diverse flavours in the world. But there’s a lot of misconceptions surrounding sake, and it’s helpful to hear from experts who can educate the public on what makes Japanese alcohol outstanding. Sake on Air is exactly the kind of podcast you want to listen to for expert advice.
An episode I’ve found extremely interesting is the aroma of sake and how our sense of smell contributes towards enjoying a drink. Hosted by Chris Hughes, Rebekah Wilson-Lye and Sebastien Lemoine, sake aromas is a must-hear episode for anyone with an interest in Japanese alcohol. Continue reading “Sake On Air Review: How To Discern The Aromas Of Sake”
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