What is Junmai Sake? How to Choose at a Specialty Store
Junmai sake is made from only rice, koji and water, with no added brewing alcohol. You can fully enjoy the umami and depth of the rice across a wide range of temperatures, from chilled to warmed. At Nishizawa, the owner tastes and selects the junmai sake we carry.
Choose by flavor type
Light & dry (tanrei-karakuchi)
Crisp and clean. Great with sashimi and lightly salted dishes. Best served chilled.
Rich & savory (noujun-umakuchi)
Full of rice umami. Pairs with simmered, richly flavored dishes. Opens up when gently warmed.
Ginjo style
Fragrant and light. Lovely as an aperitif or for a toast. Serve well chilled.
Sake that shines when warmed
The umami expands as it warms. Perfect for a cozy drink in the colder months.
How do you best enjoy junmai sake?
- Chilled / room temperature: honest rice umami; versatile with food.
- Warmed (nuru-kan, around 40°C): umami and roundness open up; great with Japanese cuisine.
- Hot (atsu-kan): crisp and tight; ideal on cold days or with rich dishes.
Our junmai sake
Sumida no Homare Tokubetsu Junmai
Tokyo · Azuma Brewery (sample)
Light & dry — best chilled
A crisp, food-friendly bottle. Lovely with sashimi or lightly salted dishes.
720ml／1,650円
Tsukimachi Junmai Ginjo
Niigata · Koshino Brewery (sample)
Fragrant — serve well chilled
Elegant ginjo aroma with a light palate. Perfect for a toast or as an aperitif.
720ml／1,980円
Minori no Sato Junmai
Yamagata · Dewa Brewery (sample)
Rich & savory — try it warmed
Full of rice umami; even more expressive served warm (nuru-kan).
1800ml／3,300円
Find your favorite junmai sake, in store.
Tell us your preferred flavor and we will help you choose the perfect bottle.