Sake & Plum Wine

Sake is a traditional Japanese brew made from polished rice, water, yeast, and koji mold. While often called rice wine, its brewing process is actually closer to beer, resulting in a complex drink that ranges from bone-dry and earthy to sweet, fruity, and floral. Plum wine, or Umeshu, is a sweeter liqueur made by steeping green ume plums in alcohol and sugar, offering a vibrant balance of tartness and rich sweetness.

When choosing a sake, look at the polishing ratio on the label. Highly polished rice, like in Daiginjo sakes, generally produces lighter, more aromatic, and refined styles, while less polished Honjozo or Junmai sakes tend to be richer and more savory. Both sake and plum wine are incredibly versatile at the dinner table. Try a crisp, chilled sake with sushi, oysters, or salty cheeses, or enjoy a rich plum wine poured over ice as an aperitif or alongside fruit desserts.