How to Store and Preserve Sake

Sake changes its color and flavor over time, especially when exposed to direct light and fluctuating temperatures. Therefore, the best way to store sake is in a dark and cool place. With proper care, most sake usually keeps its intended flavor and color for up to a year. However, certain types need more precise temperature control.

Sake drinkers preserve sake similarly to how they store wine, most commonly in a refrigerator, but a cellar also works well. One major difference to wine is that sake bottles are not corked. Because of this, unlike with wine bottles, humidity does not affect the quality of the sake, and it is recommended to store the bottles upright.

Storing Sake:
How Do Light and Temperature Affect Sake?

Light

Light, especially the UV rays in sunlight, degrades amino acids and vitamins in sake. This, in turn, accelerates the changes in the characteristics of sake (aging). For this reason, sake bottles are often tinted dark brown. The dark coloring blocks UV rays from reaching the liquor inside, therefore preventing the sake from aging.
Temperature

Fluctuating temperatures directly affect the speed and type of chemical reactions that occur inside sake. The higher the temperature, the faster and broader these reactions occur.

Preserving Sake:
Which Types of Sake Requires More Attention?

Ginjo/Daiginjo

Ginjo and daiginjo sake are unique due to their fruity aroma. Fragrant as they are, they are susceptible to high-temperatures that can cause them to lose their aroma. To best enjoy ginjo and daiginjo sake, keep the bottle cold in a refrigerator. Also, make sure to drink it within a week after opening.
Namazake

Namazake, or ‘unpasteurized’ sake, is popular for its fresh and juicy flavor. Many refer to it as “alive” because when bottling, koji and yeast enzymes are not deactivated. Due to this, its characteristics can change very quickly. Therefore, store bottles of namazake in temperatures below 5℃ to keep its fresh nature.
Uncapped Sake

After opening a bottle of sake, it gradually begins to oxidize. However, its flavor does not change as quickly as wine. To keep the freshness of an open bottle, cap it airtight and store it in a refrigerator.

Enjoy the Changing Flavors

Proper storage somewhat preserves the qualities of sake. Despite this, it will still constantly change over time. There is no official expiry date on sake. Therefore, experts recommend sake drinkers to enjoy the changing flavors. One can experience the change in taste from a week to even a few months after opening. Read more about the aging of sake on the tastes of sake page.

Basic How to Store and
Preserve Sake