How To Serve Sparkling Sake? Cloudy or Clear?

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What is Sparkling Sake?

Sparkling Sake is a relatively new style of Sake, but it is already one of the fastest-growing categories of sake on the market as sake drinkers embrace this modern, playful interpretation of the traditional Japanese drink. Until recently, it was fairly unknown outside of Japan, but today there are quite a few different brands of sparkling sake available, including Akashi-Tai, Sawanotsuru and Dassai. It is also sometimes known as “happo-shu”. It tends to have a low-ish ABV of around 7%, so it is also a great alternative to sparkling wine for the low alcohol crowd.

How is Sparkling Sake Made?

It is made using a very similar method to the traditional method of sparkling wine production i.e. with a secondary fermentation in the bottle. It is made in much the same way as normal Sake but sparkling Sake is allowed to undergo a secondary fermentation in the bottle with Koji fungus. This produces carbon dioxide and therefore a fizzy Sake. The Koji fungus,  a culture called Aspergillus oryzae is not technically a yeast, but performs a similar function. Unlike sparkling wines made in the traditional method, it is not disgorged, so a small amount of fine sediment remains in the bottle.

Buy Akashi-Tai Junmai Ginjo Sparkling Sake 7%

Should Sparkling Sake be Served Clear or Cloudy?

Sparkling Sake will have a small amount of fine sediment. This is the remains of the Koji mould used to ferment the sake, at the bottom of the bottle. A recent question from a customer about how to serve sparkling Sake set me thinking. I had only ever had it served it cloudy before. So I asked our suppliers to find out for me. The answer from Mr. Yonezawa at the Ninki-Ichi brewery was that it can be served either cloudy or clear, depending on one’s personal preference. It seems that it is more likely to be drunk cloudy in Japan, whilst Europeans, who are mainly brought up on clear wine, often serve it clear. Either way, it should be served chilled.

Served Cloudy

If you want to serve it cloudy, that is pretty easy – open the bottle slightly, gently let the gas out, close the bottle again and just turn the bottle upside down a couple of times to distribute the sediment before you gently open the bottle. It is only a very fine sediment and does not detract from the enjoyment of the sake at all. 

Served Clear

If you want to serve it clear then leave the bottle upright in the fridge for a couple of days, gently open the bottle just enough to let the gas out gently, then open it fully and very gently pour the sake, in one go if possible, keeping the settled sediment at the bottom of the bottle.

Food Pairing

Sparkling sake is quite low in alcohol compared to other Sake, with an ABV of between 5 and 8%.  It is a great refreshing alternative to sparkling wine and can be served as an aperitif; however, it is also a very versatile partner to all sorts of foods. The key is to pair it with lighter, more delicate foods that won’t overwhelm the subtleties of the sake. The effervescence helps cleanse the palate and keeps the flavours balanced. Experiment to find your favourite pairings!

It doesn’t go particularly well with spicy, rich dishes as it will be easily overpowered,

• Sushi, sashimi, or tempura for a classic Japanese match.
• Mushroom dishes to complement its umami notes.
• Soft cheeses or salty snacks to balance its delicate sweetness.
• Avoid spicy or heavy dishes, as they may overpower its subtle flavours.

Great in Cocktails

Try in an Elderflower Sake Spritz

NAME: Elderflower Sake Spritz
GLASS: Large Wine Glass or Highball
METHOD: Build/Shake & Top

INGREDIENTS:
9 cl Akashi-Tai Junmai Ginjo Sparkling Sake (chilled)
3 cl Elderflower Liqueur (e.g., Briottet Fleur de Sureau Liqueur)
1.5 cl Fresh Lemon Juice
1.5 cl Simple Syrup (1:1)
6 cl: Soda Water
Ice: Cubes

GARNISH: – Lemon Twist – Edible Flower (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Fill the glass with ice.
2. Shake elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice.
3. Strain into the ice-filled glass.
4. Top with chilled sparkling sake and soda water.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist and edible flower (if using)

Find Akashi-Tai Sparkling Sake and cocktail ingredients at Fareham Wine Cellar or order online for sake delivery in the UK.

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