This growing popularity can be attributed to the domestic boom in koji and amazake (sweet rice drink), and more importantly, to the growing number of sake lovers who become captivated by doburoku's unique deliciousness.
Today, we introduce the characteristics of "doburoku," this traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage that's attracting attention, along with nondo's doburoku that we at Sakura Sake Shop highly recommend.
What is Doburoku? How Does It Differ from Regular Sake?
Characteristics of Doburoku
Doburoku is "an alcoholic beverage made by combining water, rice, and rice koji," and is considered the oldest type of rice-based alcohol in history.
However, doburoku wasn't widely commercialized as it is today; it was typically made in individual households and local communities.
Today, with the establishment of doburoku special zones, various regions create distinctive doburoku varieties that delight us consumers.
The Decisive Difference from Regular Sake
While regular sake undergoes a pressing process after fermentation to separate it into clear sake and sake lees, doburoku's absolute requirement is that it must not be pressed. Therefore, only beverages that are "made from rice, rice koji, and water through fermentation and are 'not strained'" qualify as official doburoku.
Due to this process, "nigori-zake" (cloudy sake), which is bottled with significant sediment after pressing, is classified as "seishu" (clear sake) under liquor tax law, whereas doburoku is classified as "other brewed alcoholic beverages."
Additionally, doburoku retains the carbon dioxide gas naturally generated during fermentation, allowing you to enjoy a pleasant effervescent sensation. For those who want to enjoy more effervescence, we also recommend sparkling sake - please refer to our related articles for more information.
▶︎Sparkling Sake Guide: The Best 5 Japanese Champagne
Recommended Doburoku: DOBUROKU Sokujo Pasteurized
Today we introduce doburoku from nondo, which is likely to receive increasing international interest.
This authentic doburoku is produced in Tono City, Iwate Prefecture, which was designated as Japan's first doburoku special zone. It's a quick-brewed type made from naturally cultivated "Hitomebore" rice grown without pesticides or fertilizers, with minimal polishing. The gentle umami and natural sweetness of the rice, balanced with soft acidity, creates a comfortable harmony that's recommended even for doburoku beginners. Being a pasteurized type, it can be enjoyed for extended periods, which is another appealing feature.
Product Details:
- nondo (Iwate Prefecture)
- Alcohol content: 13%
- Rice polishing ratio: 96%
This product received exceptional reviews at exhibitions in Spain, with European industry professionals providing the following comments:
- "Completely different from any nigori I've tasted before"
- "Very gentle flavor - truly impressive"
- "The label design is also very stylish"
If you're interested in handling alcoholic beverages with a different taste profile from traditional sake, please consider this option.
Conclusion
If you're interested in expanding your sake product lineup, including doburoku, please don't hesitate to contact us.
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