Sake and Rice Varieties Sake is a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made using rice and koji. Various types of rice are used to brew sake, as rice has a great impact on the flavor and aroma of sake. Here, we will explain in detail the representative rice varieties for sake.
Yamada Nishiki
Yamada Nishiki is one of the most famous rice varieties for making Japanese sake. Known as sake brewing rice, it can bring out the aroma and taste of sake. Yamada Nishiki was born in Shiga Prefecture and is cultivated nationwide. Yamada Nishiki has a rich flavor, but is difficult to polish. Therefore, it is known as a variety often used for high-end sake.
Gohyakumangoku
Gohyakumangoku is one of the oldest varieties of rice used for sake. Gohyakumangoku is characterized by its low acidity and bitterness, and a clean taste. In addition, well-polished Gohyakumangoku has a rich fragrance. Gohyakumangoku is a variety that adds depth to the taste of sake and is used by many sake brewers.
Omachi
Omachi is a rice variety that originated in Hyogo prefecture. Known as rice suitable for brewing sake, it is highly supported by breweries. Omachi has a rich flavor and is easy to polish. Therefore, some sake brewers use it by blending it with other rice. Omachi is one of the varieties that adds depth to sake and is used in many premium sakes.
Drop of God
Kami no Shizuku is known as one of the most expensive varieties of sake rice. Kami-no-Shizuku was born in Gifu Prefecture and is extremely difficult to cultivate because it requires a high degree of polishing. However, its flavor is very delicate and deep, and it is gaining popularity among many sake lovers.
Other varieties
Rice varieties used for sake include Yamabuki, Miyama Nishiki, Asahi no Yume, Naraku, Hitogokochi, Yume no Kaori, and Cherry. These varieties are locally grown and used by many brewers. Each variety has its own unique flavor and aroma, which enriches the taste of sake.
The above is an explanation of the rice varieties used for sake. The taste of sake is greatly influenced by the variety of rice, so it would be a good idea to understand the characteristics of each and find your favorite sake.
