Junmai sake is a type of rice wine that is made from pure rice and water. It is considered to be the highest quality sake available and has a much cleaner flavor than other types of sake. In this blog post, we will discuss the history and production of Junmai, as well as the different types that are available on the market. We will also provide some tips on how to choose the right dessert sake for your needs. Thanks for reading!
The History Of Pure Rice Sake
Junmai has been around for centuries and was originally created in Japan. The word Junmai comes from the Japanese words “jun” and “mai,” which mean “pure” and “rice,” respectively. Junmai is made using only pure rice and water, without the addition of any other ingredients. This type of sake was traditionally made for the Imperial Court of Japan and was reserved for special occasions. Today, Junmai is still considered to be a premium product and is enjoyed by people all over the world.
The Production Of Junmai
Junmai sake production is using a two-step process known as brewing and pressing. First, the sake rice is milled down to about 60% of its original size. This process is known as “polishing” and it removes the outer layer of the rice grain, which contains most of the fat and protein. Next, the polished rice is washed and soaked in water for around 20 hours. After this step, the rice is drained and steamed, which makes it easier to break down during fermentation.
The Junmai fermentation process generally takes around two weeks. During this time, yeast and koji (a type of mold) are added to the steamed rice. The koji breaks down the starch in the rice into sugar, which is then converted into alcohol by the yeast. Once fermentation is complete, the sake is pressed and filtered to remove any solids. Finally, the junmai sparkling sake is pasteurized to kill any remaining bacteria and then bottled.
There are three different types of Junmai: junmai-shu, junmai ginjo-shu, and junmai daiginjo-shu. Junmai-shu is the most common type and is made with rice that has been milled down to 70% of its original size.
Junmai ginjo-shu uses rice that has been milled down to 60% of its original size, while junmai daiginjo-shu uses rice that has been milled down to 50% of its original size. The lower the milling rate, the higher the quality of the sparkling sake.
How To Choose The Right Dessert Sake For You
When choosing a sake, it is important to consider the style of Junmai that you prefer. If you like a sweeter sake, then you should look for a Junmai ginjo-shu or Junmai daiginjo-shu. These types of sake are made with rice that has been milled down to a lower percentage, which results in a sweeter flavor. If you prefer dryer sake, then you should look for a Junmai-shu. This type of Junmai is made with rice that has been milled down to a higher percentage and has a dryer flavor.
How To Serve Junmai?
Junmai can be served chilled, at room temperature, or hot. It is traditionally served in a small cup called a “choko.” If you are serving Junmai ginjo-shu or Junmai daiginjo-shu, then it is best to serve chilled in order to preserve the delicate flavor. If you are serving Junmai-shu, then it can be served either cold or at room temperature.
What Are Some Popular Junmai Brands?
Some popular Junmai brands include Dassai, Kamoizumi, and Hakutsuru.
Dassai is a Junmai that is made with Yamada Nishiki rice that has been milled down to 50%. It has a light and delicate flavor with notes of melon and peach.
Kamoizumi is a Junmai ginjo-shu that is made with Gohyakumangoku that has been milled down to 60%. It has a fruity aroma with flavors of pineapple and grapefruit.
Hakutsuru is a Junmai-shu that is made with Yamadanishiki rice that has been milled down to 70%. It has a light and dry flavor with a slightly sweet finish.
Is Junmai The Best Sake?
No, Junmai is not the best sake. The best sake is the one that you enjoy the most. There are many different types of sake and each has its own unique flavor. Try different kinds and find the one that you like the best!
Is Junmai A Dry Sake?
No, Junmai is not a dry sake. It is a type of sake that can be either dry or sweet depending on the style. ginjo-shu and daiginjo-shu are typically sweeter than Junmai-shu.
What Is The Difference Between Junmai And Ginjo?
Junmai is made with rice that has been milled down to 70%, while Ginjo is made with rice that has been milled down to 60%. The lower milling rate results in a more delicate flavor for Ginjo
.
How Much Alcohol Is In Junmai?
Junmai contains around 14-16% alcohol by volume.
