Japanese sakes

Sake is a fermented alcoholic beverage made from rice from Japan. It is a traditional drink highly appreciated by the Japanese and enjoyed with meals. Sake is generally around 15% alcohol, slightly stronger than wine. Its transparent, even pale yellow color, is reminiscent of dry or sweet white wine. Sake has a milder, less astringent flavor, very rich in umami. Contrary to popular belief, sake is not a digestif, it is not distilled and can be drunk throughout the meal, as an aperitif or even with a dessert. Each sake has an ideal tasting temperature that allows its flavors to fully develop and, like wine, it accompanies a variety of dishes. This is why sake is not a drink simply reserved for Japanese or Asian restaurants. They can be drunk at room temperature, cold or even heated.