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Singapore is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, making it the perfect city to discover the diverse and refined world of sake. Originating in Japan, sake is a fermented rice beverage that comes in various styles and grades, each offering unique flavors and aromas. If you’re a sake enthusiast or just curious about trying it for the first time, Singapore boasts an impressive range of sake bars and shops to explore. This guide will help you understand the basics of sake and where to find the best selections in the city.
Sake, often called "Japanese rice wine," is brewed by fermenting polished rice with water, yeast, and a special mold called koji. While it’s often compared to wine, the process of making sake is closer to brewing beer.
The key factor that sets sake apart is the degree to which the rice is polished. The outer layer of the rice grain contains fats and proteins that can affect the flavor. By polishing away more of the outer layer, brewers can create lighter, more refined sake.
Understanding the main types of sake can enhance your appreciation of this traditional beverage. Here are the most popular categories:
Junmai
Made with only rice, water, yeast, and koji mold, Junmai sake is rich, robust, and full-bodied. It pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like grilled meats or tempura.
Honjozo
This sake has a small amount of distilled alcohol added, which lightens its flavor and aroma. Honjozo is a versatile option for warm or chilled serving.
Ginjo
With at least 40% of the rice polished away, Ginjo sake offers fruity and floral notes. It’s often enjoyed chilled and complements delicate dishes like sushi or sashimi.
Daiginjo
Polished to at least 50%, Daiginjo sake is the pinnacle of refinement. It is elegant, aromatic, and often reserved for special occasions.
Nigori
Unfiltered and cloudy, Nigori sake is sweet and creamy, making it an excellent choice for desserts or spicy food.
Singapore’s love for sake has resulted in a growing number of places where you can enjoy this Japanese delicacy. Whether you’re dining out or shopping for a bottle to take home, these are the best places to check out.
If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for sake in Singapore, The Art of Sake is a must-visit. Known for its extensive collection, this online store offers everything from classic Junmai to premium Daiginjo. They carefully curate their selection to include both well-known brands and rare artisanal bottles. Whether you’re new to sake or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll find something to suit your taste here.
Their user-friendly website makes it easy to browse by type, region, or flavor profile. Plus, they provide detailed tasting notes to help you make informed decisions. Don’t miss their Toko Junmai Daiginjo, a crowd favorite for its smooth texture and fruity notes.
For a traditional sake-tasting experience, head to Orihara Shoten, a cozy sake bar and retail shop in Robertson Quay. Known for its authentic Japanese vibe, Orihara offers an extensive list of sakes sourced directly from Japan.
Their knowledgeable staff can recommend sakes based on your preferences and even introduce you to lesser-known regional varieties. The bar also hosts regular sake-tasting events, perfect for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of this Japanese tradition.
Combining delicious Japanese small plates with a stellar sake selection, Shukuu Izakaya is a popular spot for a casual night out. Their menu includes over 60 different sakes, ranging from light and crisp Ginjo to bold and earthy Junmai.
Pair your sake with their signature dishes like grilled skewers or sashimi for an authentic izakaya experience. The friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a great place for both beginners and experts to enjoy sake.
For those who appreciate rare and artisanal sakes, Sakemaru Artisan Sake Hideout is the place to be. This members-only club specializes in exclusive sakes sourced directly from small breweries in Japan.
Their monthly sake subscription box is a fantastic way to explore new and unique varieties. Each box comes with tasting notes and food pairing suggestions, making it an excellent option for sake enthusiasts who want to expand their palate.
A modern sake bar that blends Japanese and Western influences, Sake Labo is ideal for adventurous drinkers. Their curated selection includes both traditional sakes and innovative cocktails made with sake.
The bar also serves a fusion menu featuring dishes like wagyu sliders and truffle fries, which pair surprisingly well with sake. The chic and stylish setting makes it a popular choice for date nights and celebrations.
When exploring sake, it’s helpful to consider your personal preferences and the occasion. Here are some tips:
Flavor Profile: If you enjoy fruity and floral notes, opt for Ginjo or Daiginjo. For something richer, go for Junmai.
Serving Temperature: Sake can be served chilled, warm, or at room temperature. Lighter sakes like Ginjo are best chilled, while full-bodied Junmai is great when warm.
Food Pairing: Pair light sakes with delicate dishes like sushi and heavier sakes with rich or spicy foods.
From the robust flavors of Junmai to the elegant refinement of Daiginjo, Singapore offers endless opportunities to explore the world of sake. Whether you visit a specialty sake bar, join a tasting event, or shop online, there’s always something new to discover.
Start your sake journey today and experi.ence the unique flavors and traditions of this iconic Japanese beverage. With so many great options in Singapore, you’re sure to find your perfect pour. Cheers to good times and great sake!
