Japanese Sake – Premium Rice Wine & Traditional Japanese Drinks

Discover authentic Japanese sake at Asia Market Ireland. Sake is Japan's iconic rice wine, crafted using rice, water, yeast and koji through a traditional brewing process that dates back over a thousand years. From smooth everyday sake to premium Junmai Daiginjo, cloudy Nigori sake and fruity Umeshu, our collection offers something for every palate.

Whether you're looking for Japanese sake, premium sake, cooking sake, yuzu sake, plum sake or sake online in Ireland, Asia Market offers a carefully selected range from trusted Japanese breweries with fast nationwide delivery.

What Is Sake?

Sake (sometimes mistakenly spelled saki) is a traditional Japanese alcoholic drink brewed from specially polished rice. Unlike wine, which is made from fruit, sake is produced through a unique fermentation process using rice, water, yeast and koji mould.

Sake is enjoyed throughout Japan during celebrations, festivals and everyday meals, and is one of the world's most respected traditional alcoholic beverages.

Popular Types of Japanese Sake

Our range may include a variety of premium Japanese sake styles, including:

Junmai Sake

Junmai sake is brewed using only rice, water, yeast and koji, delivering a rich, full-bodied flavour that pairs beautifully with Japanese cuisine.

Junmai Daiginjo Sake

One of the highest grades of sake, Junmai Daiginjo is made from highly polished rice, creating an elegant, delicate and aromatic drink.

Nigori Sake

Nigori sake is lightly filtered, giving it a naturally cloudy appearance and a smooth, creamy texture with gentle sweetness.

Karakuchi Sake

Karakuchi refers to dry sake with a crisp, clean finish that complements sushi, sashimi and seafood.

Yamahai Sake

Yamahai sake uses a traditional brewing method that produces a richer, more complex flavour profile with deeper umami notes.

Fruit & Flavoured Sake

For those who enjoy sweeter drinks, our selection may include:

• Yuzu sake
• Yuzushu sake
• Plum sake (Umeshu)
• Strawberry sake
• Other seasonal fruit-infused Japanese liqueurs

These refreshing drinks are perfect served chilled or over ice.

Premium Japanese Sake Brands

Depending on availability, you may find respected breweries and brands including:

• Hakutsuru
• Nihon Sakari
• Kenbishi
• Suigei

These producers are renowned for their craftsmanship and centuries of brewing expertise.

Cooking with Sake

Cooking sake is widely used in Japanese cuisine to enhance flavour and tenderise ingredients.

It is commonly added to:

• Teriyaki sauce
• Sukiyaki
• Yakitori
• Ramen broth
• Udon dishes
• Seafood
• Chicken
• Stir-fries

Sake adds subtle sweetness and umami while helping to reduce unwanted odours in meat and fish.

What Food Goes Well with Sake?

Japanese sake pairs beautifully with:

• Sushi and sashimi
• Tempura
• Yakitori
• Gyoza
• Ramen
• Udon
• Grilled fish
• Japanese BBQ
• Korean BBQ
• Light seafood dishes

The clean flavour of sake complements delicate dishes without overpowering them.

How to Serve Sake

Sake can be enjoyed:

• Chilled
• At room temperature
• Warm (traditional hot sake)

Many people also enjoy sake served in traditional ceramic sake bottles and sake cups (guinomi), depending on the occasion and style of sake.

Why Buy Sake from Asia Market?

• Authentic Japanese sake brands
• Premium Junmai and Daiginjo selections
• Nigori, Umeshu and Yuzu sake available
• Perfect for pairing with sushi and Japanese cuisine
• Fast delivery throughout Ireland
• Trusted Asian food and drink specialist

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sake made from?

Sake is brewed from rice, water, yeast and koji mould using a unique fermentation process.

Is sake the same as wine?

No. Although often called rice wine, sake is brewed more like beer, using fermented rice rather than grapes.

What is the difference between Junmai and Daiginjo sake?

Junmai sake uses only rice, water, yeast and koji, while Junmai Daiginjo is made from rice polished to a much higher degree, resulting in a lighter, more refined flavour.

Can sake be served hot or cold?

Yes. Depending on the style, sake can be enjoyed chilled, at room temperature or warmed.

What food pairs well with sake?

Sake pairs perfectly with sushi, sashimi, tempura, ramen, grilled seafood, yakitori, dumplings and many other Japanese dishes.

Where can I buy Japanese sake in Ireland?

Asia Market offers a carefully selected range of authentic Japanese sake, including Junmai, Nigori, Umeshu and premium sake, available online with fast delivery throughout Ireland.