Sake is fast gaining popularity across the globe, finding its place on fine dining menus, trendy bars, and home cellars alike. Rooted in centuries of Japanese tradition, sake offers a unique drinking experience that’s both refined and culturally rich. From delicate floral aromas to savoury, umami-laced flavours, diverse styles of these award-winning sakes make them fascinating to explore for both newcomers and connoisseurs.
However, what makes sake truly special is how it’s enjoyed. It’s not just about flavour—it’s about tradition, hospitality, and connection. With specific glassware, pouring customs, and temperature preferences, drinking sake becomes a ritual in itself. As Indian drinkers become more curious and adventurous, sake is finding new fans who appreciate its elegance and versatility, especially when paired with a variety of cuisines.
In this guide, we spotlight three standout sakes you must try—each offering its own distinctive character and story. These aren’t just bottles to sip; they’re invitations to discover the art, culture, and craftsmanship behind one of the world’s most intriguing spirits.
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Hakushika Yamadanishiki Karakuchi Junmai Silk
Crafted with Yamada Nishiki rice—revered as the “king of sake rice”—Hakushika Yamadanishiki Karakuchi Junmai Silk lives up to its name with a refined, silky-smooth texture and light umami character. Delicate fruit notes of melon and white peach blend seamlessly with subtle hints of steamed rice, creating a sake that’s both refreshing and elegantly structured. Its soft sweetness pairs beautifully with rich and creamy dishes like paneer butter masala, enhancing the spiced decadence. It also elevates chicken malai tikka, complementing its smoky char and mild spice. For seafood lovers, the sake’s umami depth makes it a perfect companion to bold coastal dishes like Mangalorean fish curry. This sake is ideal for those who enjoy subtle elegance and appreciate a texturally smooth and balanced drink. It’s also incredibly food-friendly, pairing seamlessly with Indian, Japanese, and seafood dishes.
Importer: RadElan Distributors
Price: ₹4200
Best Served: Slightly chilled at 10-15°C to preserve its gentle aromas and elegant structure.
Princess Marriage – IKU’S SHIRO
With a name as whimsical as its taste, Princess Marriage – IKU’S SHIRO is a Junmai Daiginjo sake made from meticulously polished Yamada Nishiki rice, resulting in a refined and elegant profile. Bursting with aromas of citrus, green apple, and delicate white flowers, this sake delivers a light body and crisp acidity that’s perfect for warm weather and vibrant flavours. Its refreshing nature makes it a delightful match for zesty aloo chaat, where the acidity balances the spice and tang. Tandoori prawns gain a lifted edge with the sake’s citrusy sharpness, while its floral and clean notes complement the subtle textures of sushi and sashimi beautifully. This is the ideal sake for wine lovers, especially fans of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. If you’re looking for something with finesse, Princess Marriage offers balance, brightness, and charm in every sip.
Importer: Flipsydee
Price: ₹4513
Best Served: Chilled at 5–10°C to preserve its crispness and lift the aromatic expression.
Komachi Fruity Sake
Komachi Fruity Sake is a sweet, vibrant, and highly approachable sake that’s perfect for those who enjoy fruit-forward drinks. With lower alcohol content and bold flavours of ripe peach, lychee, and floral honey, it offers a juicy and refreshing palate that’s ideal for casual sipping at dinner or brunch. The sake’s gentle sweetness pairs wonderfully with spicy paneer tikka, providing a cooling contrast to the heat. For dessert lovers, it’s a dream with mango sticky rice, where sweet meets sweet in the best possible way. It also complements spicy Asian stir-fries like Thai basil chicken or Szechuan noodles, thanks to its smooth and juicy finish. Perfect for new sake drinkers, casual drinkers, or those who enjoy wines like Moscato and Riesling. It’s easy, fruity, and fun, without sacrificing quality or depth.
Importer: Sonarys
Price: ₹3200
Best Served: Chilled at 5–8°C or even served over ice for an extra refreshing experience on a hot day.
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How to Pair Sake with Food: Tips for Every Cuisine
Sake’s incredible versatility makes it a fantastic companion for a wide range of cuisines—from delicate Japanese fare to bold Indian flavours and beyond. Unlike wine, sake is naturally low in acidity and rich in umami, which gives it a smooth, round character that complements food in surprisingly harmonious ways. Here are some helpful tips to guide your next sake pairing experience:
Match Intensity with Intensity
Just like with wine, pair light-bodied sakes like Junmai Daiginjo with delicate dishes (sushi, steamed fish, salads), and fuller-bodied styles like Junmai or Honjozo with richer foods (curries, grilled meats, stir-fries).
Balance Heat with Sweetness
Sakes with a touch of residual sugar, like fruity or off-dry styles, can balance spicy Indian and Asian dishes beautifully. The sweetness helps soothe the heat while elevating flavour.
Use Umami as a Bridge
Sake’s natural umami content makes it a brilliant partner for dishes that also carry savoury depth—think mushrooms, soy-based sauces, aged cheese, or Indian gravies like dal makhani or butter chicken.
Chilled for Freshness, Warm for Comfort
Delicate sakes with floral or fruity aromas shine when served chilled, especially with salads or seafood. Richer sakes, when gently warmed, are comforting and ideal for hearty dishes or colder evenings.
Don’t Limit to Japanese Cuisine
Sake pairs wonderfully with global cuisines. Try it with paneer tikka, grilled kebabs, Thai curries, or even tacos. It’s more flexible than you’d imagine—just experiment and enjoy the ride!
For more wines, spirits and sake recommendations, check out the IWS Award Ultimate Drinking Guide. Click here to know more.
