How to Drink Sake: A Complete Guide

A person pouring DREAMSAKE

Introduction

Sake is enjoyed worldwide, but many people are unsure how to drink it properly. Should it be served hot or cold? What type of cup should you use? Is there a right way to sip it? This guide will cover everything you need to know about drinking sake the right way.

Choosing the Right Sake Glass

Sake can be served in various types of cups, each affecting the drinking experience. We recommend serving in a wine glass in order to enhance the flavor, but there’s a number of vessels which can be used:

  • Ochoko (Small Ceramic Cups): Traditional and commonly used for warm sake.

  • Masu (Square Wooden Box): A symbol of prosperity, often used in celebrations.

  • Glass Wine Cups: Ideal for premium sake to enhance aroma and flavor.

  • Tokkuri (Ceramic Flask): Used for serving, especially when warming sake.

Should Sake Be Served Hot or Cold?

The temperature at which you drink sake affects its taste. We advise always drinking DREAMSAKE® cold, but here’s a general guide:

  • Cold (5-10°C / 41-50°F): Enhances fruity and floral notes, best for premium sake like Daiginjo.

  • Room Temperature (15-25°C / 59-77°F): Preserves the balanced flavors of Junmai and Honjozo sake.

  • Warm (40-55°C / 104-131°F): Brings out umami and richness, ideal for full-bodied sakes like Honjozo and some Junmai.

How to Drink Sake the Right Way

  1. Pouring Etiquette: In Japanese culture, it’s polite to pour sake for others rather than yourself.

  2. Sipping, Not Shooting: Unlike strong spirits, sake is meant to be sipped slowly to appreciate its complex flavors.

  3. Swirl and Smell: If drinking premium sake, gently swirl the cup to release its aroma, similar to wine tasting.

  4. Pair with Food: Sake pairs well with a variety of foods, from sushi to grilled meats and cheese.

Common Sake Drinking Mistakes to Avoid

  • Drinking it Too Fast: Sake is meant to be enjoyed slowly.

  • Ignoring Food Pairings: The right pairing can enhance both the food and the sake.

  • Pouring for Yourself: In formal settings, always serve others before yourself.

Conclusion

Drinking sake is more than just consuming alcohol—it’s an experience steeped in tradition. Whether you prefer it warm or chilled, in a traditional ochoko or a wine glass, following these guidelines will help you appreciate the beauty of sake.

FAQs

Q: How do you store opened sake? A: Keep it in the fridge and consume it within a few days for the best taste.

Q: What’s the best sake for beginners? A: A fruity and light Daiginjo sake like DREAMSAKE® is a great start for newcomers.