One appeal of Japanese sake is the wide range of temperatures for consumption. By changing the temperature, the flavor of the same brand of sake varies greatly, interestingly enough, along with its compatibility with various dishes, making sake enjoyable year-round. In the fall, the flavors of dishe...

By Yuji MatsumotoRecently, I’m often asked from Americans, “Wine is often used for cooking, can you also use Japanese sake?” Japanese sake is great for cooking, because it contains many umami components for use in various ways.” Eliminating OdorSake is useful to eliminate odor from pork, lamb, etc.,...

By Kosuke KujiIn last issue's column, we mentioned: "On April 17th 2013, by a certification body called Chabad of Japan, Nanbu Bijin received a certification of “Kosher” to certify that their products are safe and trustworthy based on the dietary food standards of Judaism." We also explained what Ko...

By Yuji MatsumotoIt’s simple to state that sake is a beverage of taste, selected and consumed according to individual preferences. However, “delicious” share the following common characteristics:• Sweetness• Acidity• Saltiness• Bitterness • Umami flavorsThe balance between these common elements is i...

By Kosuke KujiOn April 17th 2013, by a certification body called Chabad of Japan, Nanbu Bijin received a certification of “Kosher” to certify that their products are safe and trustworthy based on the dietary food standards of Judaism. Probably many of the Japanese that read this column may not be fa...

By Yuji MatsumotoThe number of Japanese sake brands available in the U.S. is increasing annually with approximately 450 brands offered domestically. C...

By Kosuke KujiDuring hot summer months, we often hear the phrase, “let’s start off with a kampai (toast) with beer!” However, it’s been a long-term effort by our sake industry to request kampai be practiced with Japanese sake, known as “the movement to promote kampai with Japanese sake.” This is bec...

By Yuji MatsumotoIn this issue, I’d like to report on a secret to enhance pairing of Japanese cuisine with sake.First, please have three brands of Japanese sake with very different properties. The differences in properties are hard to detect unless you try them, but at first, please select the sake ...

By Kosuke KujiAfter about 10 years of research and development, Iwate Prefecture announced their new Iwate prefecture original sake brewing suitable r...

By Yuji MatsumotoAmerican customers who come to Japanese restaurants anticipate enjoying cuisine and beverages not available in general American restaurants or supermarkets. According to a previously publicized survey, 70 American customers asked what they most look forward to at a Japanese restaura...