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Coconut Cafe, Sake Cider, and the Sake-Tini are a twist on a traditional Japanese libation. (Courtesy Photos) |
Created by the Japan Saké Brewers Association in 1978, Sake Day or “Nihonshu no Hi” marks the start of the new sake brewing season for the year, this year on October 1st. Pronounced “sah-keh” not “sah-key,” sake refers to any alcohol in Japan, specifically rice wine.
Traditionally poured from a small, ceramic flash called a tokkuri, or a kettle into a sakazuki, a handle-free cup. However, here in Long Island Wine Country feel free to sample your sake in a wine glass so you can appreciate the color and nose of the rice wine. Another tradition, never pour into your own glass, it’s a sign of respect and friendship to serve a guest or to be served.
Shout “Kanpai” (the equivalent of “Cheers!”) on World Sake Day with these four spirited cocktails.
Coconut Cafe
2 oz TY KU Coconut Sake
1 oz XO Patron Cafe
.5 oz Half & Half
Serve in a frozen martini glass
Sake-Tini
2 oz TY KU Sake
1 oz TY KU Sojo or Vodka
Sliced cucumber
Hard shake with ice
Sake Cider
2 oz TY KU Sake Black
1.5 oz Apple Cider
1 oz Apple Liqueur
Splash of Grenadine
Shake with ice
Garnish with cinnamon stick
Mango Coconut Martini
2 oz TY KU coconut Sake
1 oz Zyr Vodka
Fresh Mango Puree
