Glossary > Nihonshu (sake)

What is Nihonshu (sake)?

日本酒 にほんしゅ / nihonshu

Rice wine brewed from rice, water and koji mould. Outside Japan it is called sake, but in Japan "sake" can mean alcohol in general, so izakayas often write nihonshu. It is served cold or warm, depending on the type.

How to order and eat it

Ordered by the glass (go) or by a small carafe (tokkuri). Ask the staff to recommend a dry (karakuchi) or a sweeter, fruitier type.

Dietary notes

Contains alcohol. Made from rice, and some types have added brewer's alcohol.

This is a general description, and recipes vary by shop. If you have an allergy or follow a diet, ask the staff before you order.