Gift Recommendations | Sake, Sake Glasses, Whisky: 2024 Sommelier Picks
Your guide to gifting sake, curated by Sakewa's sommeliers! Discover our latest list of recommended gifts.
Searching for the perfect gift? How about a bottle of Japanese sake? Over the past few years, our sommelier's recommendations have been a hit. A bottle of premium Japanese sake is always a delightful surprise. If you're still on the fence, take a look at our sommelier's list of recommended Japanese sake gifts for 2024!
Sake Perfect for Gifting
With a myriad of varieties, many Sakes are specifically crafted for gifting, housed in uniquely designed bottles. Some types might be hard to come by outside of Japan, adding to their allure. If you're looking for a way to impress friends or family this holiday season, consider gifting a bottle of Sake!
Elegant Sake Glass Set: A Gracious Gift
The craftmanship in Japan, especially when it comes to creating sake glasses, is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, with most being handcrafted by artisans, who produce perfect sake glasses with utmost precision and care.
Sake glasses are ideal for those who enjoy sake during meals, making them an excellent gift for any occasion. With a variety of designs available, you can find the perfect match for everyone on your gift list.
ADERIA PREMIUM
Representing Japanese traditional culture through modern craftsmanship, the unique frosted crystal glass creates a cool sensation, while the golden pattern on the surface exudes a touch of elegance.
TOYO-SASAKI GLASS
TOYO SASAKI continues to uphold Japanese artisanal glass-making techniques, achieving the delicate quality and warmth of Japanese craftsmanship through hand-blowing processes.
MARUMO TAKAGI
One of the Best Gifts: Japanese Whisky
Gifting Japanese whisky is a splendid idea! They might not share your refined taste for whisky, but they'll always appreciate the gesture. If you want to surprise your friends or family without breaking the bank, take a look at our Japanese whisky selection.
Recommended Japanese Sake for Gifting
Special Brews to Leave a Lasting Impression on Friends or Family
Nanakanba Junmaishu
Limited arrival in Hong Kong! A rare Japanese sake with a stunning horse pottery exterior! A perfect gift that's both drinkable and displayable!
View Product: 720ml
Imayotsukasa Nishikigoi KOI Junmai
A premium sake brewed to high standards by 'Imayotsukasa Sake Brewery' with over 250 years of history! Representing a carp leaping over the dragon gate, it symbolizes good fortune and health, making it an auspicious gift. This delightful brew has won a Silver Award at the IWC and has been honored with over 25 design awards in Japan and internationally!
View Product: 720ml
Nito Year of the Rabbit Label Banshu 55 Junmai Ginjo Shiboritate Nama Genshu
Exclusive for the Year of the Rabbit! From Aichi Prefecture, the popular sake 'Nito' presents its Zodiac commemorative sake for the Year of the Rabbit, brewed once a year in limited quantity. This year's edition is even more special as it marks the 333rd anniversary of the brewery, adding a double significance! The 'Jikagumi', unadjusted post-brew, offers a rich rice flavor with a brisk aftertaste and refreshing mouthfeel, adding an extra touch of freshness to the abundant New Year's feast!
View Product: 720ml
Jozen Mizuno-gotoshi Rabbit Year Limited Edition Moon Sake Junmai Daiginjo Gift Box
Special release for the Year of the Rabbit! This popular sake from Niigata Prefecture, branded as 'Jozen Mizuno-gotoshi', is a noteworthy creation. Brewed exclusively with the locally sourced sake rice 'Kositanrei', it exudes an elegant aroma and a unique style! The original bottle design has won numerous design awards in various competitions, making it a perfect choice for gifting or personal enjoyment.
View Product: 720ml
KATSUYAMA Golden Rabbit Lucky Gold Foil Junmai Daiginjo Gift Box
A commemorative gold foil sake for the Year of the Rabbit 2023, wishing everyone a sparkling life ahead! Produced by Katsuyama Brewery from Miyagi Prefecture with over 300 years of brewing experience, ensuring quality!
View Product: 720ml
Fujii Shuzo Good Fortune Maneki-Neko Barley Shochu
View Product: Fujii Shuzo Maneki-Neko Barley Shochu
Eiko Fuji 79 Au Pure Gold Junmai Daiginjo, Wood Box
Introducing Eiko Fuji's globally limited gold foil sake! In a rare endeavor, the brewery has incorporated a generous amount of gold foil in crafting this sake, naming it 79 Au Pure Gold, where 79 is the atomic number of gold, and Au is its chemical symbol. This sake has been released in extremely limited quantities worldwide, making it exceedingly rare!
View Product: 720ml
Daisekkei 3 Champion Awards Special Limited Edition Yamada Nishiki Daiginjo Genshu, Gift Box
Special limited edition! This sake is a distinctive Daiginjo from the renowned sake brand 'Daisekkei' in Nagano Prefecture. It's a celebratory release commemorating the achievement of three champion awards: the Gold Award at the 'National New Sake Appraisal 2021,' the Best Award equivalent to first place at the '93rd Kanto Shinetsu National Tax Bureau Liquor Appraisal,' and the Governor's Award at the '69th Nagano Prefecture Sake Appraisal.'
View Product: 720ml
Isshokoufuku Daiginjo
Brewed using the "King of Sake Rice," 100% Yamada Nishiki from Hyogo Prefecture, this sake assures quality. It embodies a fresh Daiginjo aroma, with a sweet and delicate taste. With a rice polishing ratio of 35%, it reaches the Daiginjo grade, utilizing only the most premium part of the rice grain for brewing. Presented in a refined gift box, it's a gesture to send a blessing of "Lifetime Happiness" to someone you care about.
King of Sake: Juyondai
Hailed as the king of sake, Juyondai holds a hefty value with an extremely scarce supply, earning an international reputation as a near mythical "phantom sake." The taste of Juyondai sake is sweet with a refreshing acidity, and it leaves a lasting impression. Whether enjoyed alone or with a meal, it's a choice of exquisite taste!
View Product: Juyondai Sake
Popular Sake: DASSAI
Dassai is a popular sake loved by the famed French chef, Paul Bocuse! The highly-praised "Dassai 23" has won gold at the International Wine Challenge in 2019, 2020, and 2021, and was also chosen by Shinzo Abe for state banquets!
View Product: Dassai Sake
Dassai 23 SPARKLING Junmai Daiginjo Nigori Sake Winter Limited Edition
The winter limited edition of the popular sake Dassai, with a 23% rice polishing ratio unleashing a burst of fruity aromas characteristic of Daiginjo grade, is further enhanced by a unique sparkling nigori sake crafted through secondary fermentation in the bottle!
View Product: 720ml
Dassai 23 Junmai Daiginjo Namazake New Year's Day Limited Edition
A New Year's Day limited edition Namazake by Dassai, boasting elegant aromas and a sweet taste reminiscent of honey, ensuring a splendid start to the new year!
View Product: 720ml
Popular Ohmine Two-Grain, Three-Grain Ohmine
Smartly utilizing the characteristics of sake rice, Ohmine's 2-grain and 3-grain produce a sake with more layers and diversified flavors. With an entrance reminiscent of the aromatic blend of muscat grapes, apples, and peaches typical of Ginjo aroma, the rich taste of rice, and a long-lasting aftertaste, pairing it with sushi, sashimi, or enjoying with grilled or cooked dishes, all make for a first-rate experience!
View Product: Ohmine Two-Grain, Three-Grain Sake
Fantasy-Level "Jikon" Sake
The "Jikon" Sake is a precious brew that's in short supply in many places. The offerings from "Jikon" exude a serene and elegant aroma of flowers and fruits. Although the body is rich and full, it's not heavy, making it a high-grade sake that's very worthy of enjoyment on special occasions.
View Product: Jikon Sake
Zaku Kaizan Ittekisui Junmai Daiginjo
Winner of the Gold Award at the International Wine Challenge 2021, the "Zaku Kaizan Ittekisui" is a junmai daiginjo sake! This sake is crafted using carefully polished Yamada Nishiki rice, with a rice polishing ratio of 40%. It is brewed at low temperatures, resulting in a unique intense melon aroma on the palate, a delicate texture, and an elegant lingering rice flavor. It represents the finest work of the "Zaku" brand!
View Product: 720ml
Noguchi Naohiko Special Limited Edition - The Last Samurai
A special limited edition sake crafted by the legendary Japanese toji, Mr. Naohiko Noguchi! The inscription "最後のサムライ" on the label is hand-penned by Mr. Noguchi himself, making it highly collectible. With an overall refreshing profile, it's an ideal sake for enjoying chilled and pairing with oysters, seafood, sashimi, or sushi!
View Product: 720ml
Kokuryu Daiginjo Ryu
A classic sake from Kokuryu Shuzo! Winner of the Gold Award in the Daiginjo category at the All Japan Sake Competition in 2019! It has a refreshing and crisp taste with a hint of spiciness and complexity, making it perfect for pairing with seafood, sashimi, and sushi!
Kokuryu Nizaemon Junmai Daiginjo
A top-tier sake from the Kokuryu series, extracted using the bag-drip method, making it exceptionally precious! This sake is crafted with Yamada Nishiki rice from the special A-rated region of Hyogo Prefecture's Tojo, combined with Kokuryu Shuzo's exceptional brewing techniques. It boasts rich melon and fruit aromas, an elegant and delicate palate, and layers of complexity, making it a perfect match for seafood, sashimi, or sushi.
Miyakanbai Ginzui EXTRA CLASS 19% Junmai Daiginjo
The pinnacle of the Miyagi Prefecture's "Kanbai Shuzo" premium series! With a rice polishing ratio as low as 19%, it exudes the splendid fragrance of junmai daiginjo, allowing the unique character of the rice to shine through. This masterpiece embodies the essence of sake brewing, showcasing the purest and most pristine flavor!
View Product: 720ml
Born Chogin Super Premium Ice-Aged Junmai Daiginjo
A Japanese national treasure sake, used in the enthronement ceremony of Emperor Showa and the wedding of Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako! Aged for 5 years at -8 degrees Celsius, with a rice polishing ratio of 20%, it's crafted using Yamada Nishiki rice from the renowned special A-rated region of Hyogo Prefecture!
View Product: 720ml
Born Nihon no Tsubasa Junmai Daiginjo
A Japanese national treasure sake, once chosen as the official sake for Japan's state banquets and for use on government aircraft, enjoyed by Prime Ministers and other dignitaries. It offers a rich and delicate flavor with a lingering finish, definitely worth trying!
View Product: 720ml
Born Tokusen Junmai Daiginjo
View Product: 720ml
Hiroki Junmai Daiginjo
The sake used at the banquet for the enthronement of Emperor Naruhito and winner of the Gold Award at the International Wine Challenge 2019! This sake boasts a refreshing quality akin to fresh sake, with a splendid fruity aroma and a hint of acidity on the palate, balanced beautifully with a later sweetness and rice flavor.
View Product: 720ml
Shiramayumi JANPAN Sparkling Sake
Shiramayumi JANPAN Sparkling Sake has a sweet and aromatic fragrance with notes of ripe peaches, bananas, and coconut. On the palate, it offers a mild sweetness with a hint of acidity, making it perfect for serving chilled and pairing with refreshing snacks like fruits, desserts, and nuts. This sake not only received the First Prize Special Award at the 2020 Spring National Liquor Competition but was also chosen as the Welcome drink in ANA's First Class cabins. Its elegant gold and blue packaging makes it an excellent choice for gifting.
Isojiman Limited Edition 35 Adagio Nakadori Junmai Daiginjo
The pinnacle of Isojiman's Vintage series, taking only the most premium part of the sake liquid from the middle section. The annual production varies, depending on the maturation status and the brewer's judgment, making it extremely precious!
View Product: 720ml
Four Fox Sake Junmai Daiginjo
The nightlife exclusive sake, FOUR FOX SAKE, comes in a shimmering silver square bottle. Equipped with an LED light at the bottom, it illuminates the interior of the bottle, emitting a white glow through the transparent section of the bottle, making it stand out in the dark!
View Product: 720ml
ITO Silk Sherry Barrel Matured Genshu
This genshu (undiluted sake) is matured for an extended period in sherry wood barrels, developing a layered aroma of rice and oak, with a silky-smooth texture on the palate!
The sake label is designed by world-class Japanese calligrapher Mr. Hirono Sogen. The bottle showcases the "Large Net Peony" pattern designed by the 400-year-old Tosa Washi workshop "Kirakaracho", traditionally printed using woodblock printing techniques, exuding elegance and luxury, a worthy addition to your collection!
View Product: 720ml
Umeshuya Year of the Rabbit Limited Edition Mini Komodaru Umeshu
Limited edition for the Year of the Rabbit! This exquisite mini Komodaru packaging holds significant collectible value. Brewed by the renowned Kawachi Brewery in Osaka Prefecture, using their in-house aged brandy as a base, this umeshu exudes a rich fruity aroma and a robust, smooth flavor!
View Product: Umeshuya Year of the Rabbit Limited Edition Mini Komodaru Umeshu
Recommended Sake Glass Gift Sets
Handcrafted by Artisans, a Perfect Gift for Any Occasion
Marumo Takagi | Temperature-Sensitive Glass Sake Cup Set
This temperature-sensitive sake cup set is a creation from the renowned pottery studio 'Marumo Takagi', located in Tajimi City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan.
The cups respond to temperature changes; when exposed to temperatures below 17°C, pink sakura (cherry blossom) patterns bloom on the sakura tree depicted on the cup. Enjoying a chilled drink while watching the sakura blossom, you can comfortably experience the shift of seasons right at home.
View Product: Marumo Takagi | Temperature-Sensitive Glass Sake Cup Set
Nousaku Pure Tin Doraemon & Dorami Character Cup Set
Every tinware cup from Nousaku is handcrafted by Japanese artisans, exuding the warmth of handmade craftsmanship.
The adorable Doraemon & Dorami pair cup set is here! The Doraemon-shaped cup playfully wobbles on the table, embodying a mischievous character, while the Dorami-shaped cup, representing a more stable personality, is intentionally designed not to wobble.
View Product: Nousaku Pure Tin Doraemon & Dorami Character Cup Set
TOYO SASAKI Fortune Cup from Japan
Established in 1902, TOYO SASAKI is the largest glassware manufacturer in Japan, offering a variety of high-quality glassware, both handcrafted and machine-made. Besides precise machine manufacturing of glassware, TOYO SASAKI continues to uphold the Japanese artisanal handcrafted glass techniques, manually firing to achieve the delicate texture and warmth of Japanese craftsmanship, enriching your and my kitchen life with a strong sense of Japanese aesthetics.
View Product: TOYO SASAKI Fortune Cup from Japan
Riedel Vinum Daiginjo Crystal Sake Glass
Boasting the title of 'King of Glasses', the Austrian brand Riedel, established in 1756, is recognized as a top-tier leader in professional glassware. The Riedel Vinum Daiginjo crystal sake glass design is the result of numerous workshops and many years of research and development undertaken in collaboration with Japan's premier sake manufacturers. This glass effectively enhances the delicate aroma and rich fruity characteristics of Daiginjo sake.
View Product: Riedel Daiginjo Crystal Sake Glass
Marumo Takagi | Japanese Four Seasons Temperature-Sensitive Glass Set
This unique set of glasses, known as the Four Seasons Temperature-Sensitive Glass Set, is crafted from glass. The design on each glass reacts to temperature changes, gradually revealing a colorful pattern when chilled to 17°C or below, akin to witnessing a magical performance.
View Product: Marumo Takagi | Japanese Four Seasons Temperature-Sensitive Glass Set
NOUSAKU Artisan Handcrafted Tin Sake Ware
Every piece of tin sake ware from NOUSAKU is handcrafted by Japanese artisans, exuding a warmth of handmade craftsmanship.
When the renowned traditional gold leaf craft of Kanazawa meets the rimmed sake cup, the glittering gold leaf and Japanese sake enhance each other's brilliance. The gold leaf rimmed sake cup retains the full flavor of the sake, making it an excellent companion for Daiginjo, often enjoyed chilled. The 100% pure tin sake cup is soft in texture, making it challenging to manufacture with machines. Therefore, each sake cup is handcrafted by NOUSAKU's artisans, with Kanazawa's craftsmen delicately applying the gold leaf by hand, one piece at a time.
View Product: NOUSAKU Artisan Handcrafted Tin Sake Ware
Toyo Sasaki Japan | Fortune Cup - Mt. Fuji & Ume Flower Sake Cup Wooden Box Set
The design is inspired by Japan's iconic Mt. Fuji and Ume (Japanese apricot) flower motifs, believed to bring good fortune and a vibrant charm to your dining table. Paired with a finely crafted Japanese wooden box, it makes an elegant gift.
View Product: Toyo Sasaki Japan | Fortune Cup - Mt. Fuji & Ume Flower Sake Cup Wooden Box Set
Japan Aderia Premium
The Japanese circle pattern on a surface shining like crystal with a frosted glass finish is a very attractive design. The special frosted crystal glass and the curvature design inside the cup allow you to generate denser foam while pouring beer. To enhance your beer enjoyment, upgrade your cup now!
View Product: Japan Aderia Premium
Japan Tajima Glass Handcrafted Mount Fuji Glass Sake Cup
The base of the glass is designed to resemble Mount Fuji as closely as possible. The color of the beverage reflects on the mountain surface, allowing you to enjoy various expressions of Mount Fuji.
View Product: Japan Tajima Glass Handcrafted Mount Fuji Glass Sake Cup
Japan Shotoku Glass Handcrafted Daiginjo Tasting Cup Gift Set
Recommended sake tasting utensil! The extreme "うすはり" with only 0.9mm thickness, is manufactured using the signature "薄吹き" (thin blowing) technique, showcasing the ultra-thin Shotoku glass! With a century-old glass craftsmanship, each piece is unique and handcrafted by artisans! The cup base, designed specifically for tasting, helps to concentrate and enrich the aroma of Daiginjo, allowing tasters to better enjoy the original style of sake. It's a professional Daiginjo tasting cup beloved by many Japanese chefs and brewers!
View Product: Japan Shotoku Glass Handcrafted Daiginjo Tasting Cup Gift Set
MARUMO TAKAGI | Cold-Sensitive Cherry Blossom Flat Cup Set
The cup responds to temperature changes; below 17°C, pink cherry blossom patterns bloom on the sakura tree design on the cup. As you enjoy the blossoming cherry blossoms while sipping a cold drink, you can comfortably experience the shift of seasons right at home.
View Product: MARUMO TAKAGI | Cold-Sensitive Cherry Blossom Flat Cup Set
Aderia Premium Japan Sakura Sake Masu Cup Gift Set
On a frosted glass surface that sparkles like crystal, the golden sakura (cherry blossom) design is an incredibly beautiful touch. This is a perfect combination of a vintage sake cup and a wooden masu (traditional square measuring cup)!
View Product: Aderia Premium Japan Sakura Sake Masu Cup Gift Set
Toyo Sasaki Japan | Mount Fuji Fortunate Cup - Golden Transparency & Golden Sakura Sake Cup Wooden Box Set
Masterfully handcrafted by glass artisans, this set encapsulates the artistry of glass crafting, taking the shape of Japan's iconic Mount Fuji, believed to bring good fortune. Its noble gold color adds a vibrant touch to the dining table. Suitable for use as a sake cup, small dish for delicacies, or a single scoop ice cream bowl!
View Product: Toyo Sasaki Japan | Mount Fuji Fortunate Cup - Golden Transparency & Golden Sakura Sake Cup Wooden Box Set
Nachtmann Noblesse Gold Whisky Tumbler Set of 2
The Nachtmann Noblesse Gold Whisky Flat Bottom Cup invites you to enjoy exquisite beverages and cocktails. The ornate cut design of the crystal glass is adorned with a golden rim. Whether for festive occasions or daily use, the Noblesse glassware brings a bar-like feel to every home, creating a particularly luxurious atmosphere.
View Product: Nachtmann Noblesse Gold Whisky Tumbler Set of 2
Nachtmann Noblesse Whisky Set of 3
Nachtmann now sets your table in the rhythm of Bossa Nova. The Bossa Nova collection by Nachtmann offers tableware with a cool vibe, just like the dance it's named after! Adding a playful touch to its clear glass range, the textured basket-weave design of the Bossa Nova collection entices fingertips to touch, luring guests to linger at the table.
View Product: Nachtmann Noblesse Whisky Set of 3
Selected Japanese and World Whisky Gifts
A Cherished Gift of Time, Always Appreciated
SUNTORY Royal 2023 Year of the Rabbit Limited Edition Whisky
A special release for the Year of the Rabbit! Behold the zodiac-inspired design from SUNTORY, the pioneer of Japanese whisky, in this limited edition collectible whisky!
View Product: SUNTORY Royal 2023 Year of the Rabbit Limited Edition Whisky
SUNTORY OLD WHISKY 2023 Year of the Rabbit Limited Edition Whisky
A unique release for the Year of the Rabbit! From SUNTORY, the forefather of Japanese whisky, comes the annual blend whisky, as always in limited quantity! The whisky presents an amber hue with a glossy appearance, emanating the dry fruit aroma from oak barrel aging, offering a rich palate. The delicacy of the whisky intertwined with the robust alcoholic aroma, followed by a smoky and fruity fragrance in the aftertaste, makes the overall experience outstanding!
View Product: SUNTORY OLD WHISKY 2023 Year of the Rabbit Limited Edition Whisky
HIBIKI
Produced by Suntory, the rich and delicate Hibiki whisky is a highly-rated Japanese whisky in Hong Kong and beyond!
View Product: HIBIKI
YAMAZAKI
Another exquisite offering from Suntory, the blend is meticulously crafted by master blenders at the Yamazaki distillery, selecting the ideal malt whiskies from a colorful array of original spirits!
View Product: YAMAZAKI 12 YEARS Single Malt Whisky Gift Set
CHITA
Suntory's grain whisky, CHITA, is created by using a portion of the original spirits originally designated for blending Hibiki whisky, from within the distillery.
View Product: CHITA Single Grain Whisky
Taketsuru Pure Malt Whisky
The "Taketsuru" is crafted by blending malt whisky aged over the long term at both the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries. Matured in sherry casks, it's rich in aroma and offers an exceptionally smooth and silky taste.
View Product: Taketsuru Pure Malt Whisky 700ml Gift Box
NIKKA Gold & Gold Samurai Collector's Edition Blended Whisky
Styled after a Japanese warlord, and paired with the original whisky produced by the renowned Japanese distillery Yoichi, this edition holds significant collectible value!
View Product: NIKKA Gold & Gold Samurai Collector's Edition Blended Whisky 750ml
SUNTORY OLD WHISKY 2022 Year of the Tiger Limited Edition Whisky
The limited edition release from the pioneer of Japanese whisky, SUNTORY! Exuding the aroma of dried fruits matured in oak barrels, it's the SUNTORY Year of the Tiger limited edition whisky!
View Product: SUNTORY OLD WHISKY 2022 Year of the Tiger Limited Edition Whisky
KUJIRA Whisky
View Product: KUJIRA Oak Barrel Aged 10 YEARS Japanese Single Grain Whisky 700ml
SHINOBU
View Product: SHINOBU Mizunara Oak Aged 10 YEARS Pure Malt Whisky 700ml
MARS Shinshu Distillery
View Product: MARS MALTAGE "COSMO" Pure Malt Whisky 700ml Gift Box
KAVALAN
A perfect blend of whisky matured in three types of sherry casks. The Oloroso sherry cask whisky brings a rich aroma of mature dried fruits, blended with sweet sherry from PX casks and Moscatel cask matured liquor. The sherry flavors are delicate yet distinct, balanced, and easy to drink, suitable for various occasions or paired with meals.
View Product: KAVALAN Sherry Triple Cask Single Malt Whisky 700ml
GLENFIDDICH
In the process of making sherry, the wine was originally covered with a layer of flor yeast. An accidental opening in the flor led to a second maturation, producing what's known as Amontillado sherry. It's as if an angel couldn't resist and took a sip. Glenfiddich utilizes only 5% of these rare sherry casks to produce this whisky, thus naming it "Angel's Sherry".
View Product: GLENFIDDICH 12 YEARS Angel's Sherry Single Malt Whisky 700ml
The Glenlivet
The Glenlivet Excellence 12 Years is an exceptionally rich and layered 12-year-old whisky in the brand's lineup, positioned as the premium version of The Glenlivet 12 Years.
View Product: The Glenlivet 12 YEARS Excellence Single Malt Whisky 700ml
WOLFBURN Langskip
Wolfburn Langskip is a whisky that was distilled in the first six months after the distillery opened in 2013, aged for over five years in first-fill bourbon barrels, and bottled at a high concentration of 58% ABV as Cask Strength.
View Product: WOLFBURN Langskip Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Yamazaki Distillery Reserve Suntory Casked Umeshu (Whisky Blend Rich Amber)
This exquisite concoction is a blend of plum liqueur matured in toasted oak barrels and a whisky base, with the barrels undergoing a 30-minute roasting treatment at the Yamazaki Distillery. The delicate aroma seamlessly fuses with the plum liqueur during the aging process, endowing the drink with a rich layering of flavors. It features the velvety sweetness of plum liqueur while also capturing the lingering grain aroma of whisky.
View Product: Yamazaki Distillery Reserve Suntory Casked Umeshu (Whisky Blend Rich Amber)
Kurayoshi Distillery White Rabbit THE HAKUTO Premium Japanese Craft Gin
A world-class, gold award-winning Japanese craft gin from Kurayoshi Distillery, "White Rabbit" THE HAKUTO Premium stands out with its unique elegance! Crafted with a blend of fourteen unique botanicals, it has garnered a gold medal at the 2020 WORLD GIN AWARDS, ensuring its place as a top-tier choice for gin enthusiasts.
View Product: Kurayoshi Distillery White Rabbit THE HAKUTO Premium Japanese Craft Gin
The above recommendations are perfect for friends or family who appreciate Japanese cuisine, sake, or whisky. Whether a novice or a fervent Japanese liquor aficionado, a bottle or two of sake, a fine glassware gift set, or a bottle of Japanese whisky will surely bring joy and abundance to anyone in the new year!
Indulge in top-notch flavors delivered straight from Japan!
Sakewa curates gift-worthy treasures from Japan for you, encompassing Japanese sake, wine, whisky, and artisan-crafted glassware, covering a spectrum from entry to premium!
Sake Gifting - Professional Sake Sommelier Q&A
How should Sake be stored?
For unopened Sake, depending on the type, most breweries recommend consuming within a year. However, with proper storage, keeping it for two to three years is no problem.
Sake should be stored away from sunlight and high temperatures. General Sake undergoes a pasteurization process called "Hi-ire" and can be stored in a cool, dark place at room temperature. If you've purchased 'Namazake' (unpasteurized Sake), 'Nama-zume' (pasteurized once), or 'Nama-chozo' (pasteurized during storage) which have not undergone or only undergone one pasteurization process, it's recommended to store them at a low temperature of 0-4°C. You can learn more about Sake storage here.
Once opened, the Sake begins to oxidize as it comes into contact with air, and its aroma starts to evaporate. If you are unable to finish the bottle in one go, we strongly recommend storing it in a refrigerator at 0-4°C and consuming it within a week.
How should Sake be enjoyed?
The suitable temperature range for enjoying Sake is quite broad, from as low as 5°C to as high as 60°C. The aroma and taste of Sake change with temperature variations. When Sake is chilled, it has a light and refreshing quality, while warming it up can make it sweeter, enhance the rice flavor, and intensify the alcohol sensation. Learn more about the best temperatures for Sake here.
Sake is an excellent choice whether enjoyed on its own or paired with meals! Depending on the type of Sake, the food pairing options are quite vast. It pairs perfectly with seafood, sashimi, and sushi. Some more robust flavored Sakes can even be paired with Cantonese stir-fries, skewers, or other cooked dishes!
For glassware, we recommend using Sake glasses made of glass or tin, though using a white wine glass is also a great choice.
Recommended glassware: "NOUSAKU" Sake Glasses
Recommended glassware: "RIEDEL" Sake Glasses
How to choose Japanese Whisky?
Choosing Japanese whisky can be simplified into the following three aspects:
1. Look at the aging years. The longer a whisky has been aged, the richer and more layered the flavors will be. However, the price will be higher.
2. Consider the type of ingredients and oak barrels used. The primary distinction in ingredients is between Single Malt Whisky and Grain Whisky. Grain Whisky can be made from a variety of grains such as corn, wheat, or un-malted barley, which generally offer a different aroma compared to Single Malt Whisky. Regarding oak barrels, if bourbon barrels are used during aging, the flavor tends to be more approachable. Sherry barrels typically impart a rich aroma, while Port barrels bring a refined sweetness.
3. Assess your personal preference for peatiness. Among the big players in Japanese whisky, there are Suntory vs Nikka. Suntory’s whisky brands like Hibiki, Yamazaki, and Hakushu tend to have more approachable flavors. However, if you have a penchant for the peaty flavor characteristic of some Scottish styles, then you might prefer whiskies from Nikka such as Yoichi, Miyagikyo, or Taketsuru.
Where can I buy Japanese sake in Hong Kong?
When looking to buy Japanese sake in Hong Kong, a reputable specialized sake shop is a prime choice. Sakewa stands as a specialty sake shop, constantly curating a full range of Japanese sake, whisky, wine, and exquisite glassware, covering everything from entry-level to top-tier, allowing you to enjoy premium tastes delivered straight from Japan! Most of our Japanese sake is sold in-stock, ensuring the freshest production period. We store and transport sake with optimal configurations, isolating them from UV light and high temperatures in chilled facilities at 0-4°C, and either deliver them through professional cold chain logistics or sell them at our store with the guidance of expert sake sommeliers.
Conveniently Located Sake Stores
Sakewa is a popular sake specialty store offering over 300 varieties of top-rated sake. Our Kwun Tong store has stock available and is conveniently located just a 1-minute walk from APM. We have professional sake advisors in-store to guide you in choosing the perfect sake for your taste. We also have another store in Tseung Kwan O, providing you with an additional option.
Our stores offer special discounts for bulk purchases, with select items priced as low as 50% off. Visit us now!
Want to stay updated on the latest in sake?
Subscribe to the free "Sakewa Newsletter," published every Saturday, and never miss out on the newest sake insights! (Currently only available in Chinese)
Online Discounts Up to 50% Off
Sakewa offers a selection of over 300 Japanese sakes and other world-renowned liquors at discounts up to 50% off. Enjoy free delivery on orders over $600, with same-day delivery at the earliest!
