Now’s the Time for Fresh Nama Sake
As summer begins to ease into March, it is the perfect time to reach for something fresh, lively, and properly chilled rather than rich or heavy.
Nama sake (or Namazake) is made for exactly this moment.
Nama means unpasteurised. During brewing, most sake is gently pasteurised once or twice to stabilise flavour and shelf life. Namazake skips that final heat treatment, allowing it to retain its natural freshness and lively character.
Because it hasn’t been heat treated, Namazake often shows brighter aromatics, subtle natural liveliness, and a clean, energetic finish. Served properly chilled, it feels immediate and expressive in a way that’s instantly noticeable.
Te to Te Junmai Ginjo Nama Trio Save 10% – Limited Offer
This three-bottle tasting set from the Te to Te series features Junmai Ginjo Nama sakes made with Ginfubuki, Wataribune, and Tamasakae rice from Shiga Prefecture. Fresh, fruity, and smooth, it’s a perfect way to explore the unique character of different sake rice varieties.
“Te to Te” was created with the hope of delivering carefully hand-crafted sake directly into the hands of customers, and of connecting with people around the world. Each bottle reflects the brewer’s dedication, with the wish that this sake gently warms the hearts of those who enjoy it.
Te to Te Junmai Ginjo Wataribune Nama
This Junmai Ginjo Nama highlights the rich umami and natural sweetness of rice, with a fuller body and a long, lingering finish. Brewed using Wataribune rice from Shiga Prefecture, it offers depth, elegance, and a satisfying richness.
Te to Te Junmai Ginjo Tamasakae Nama
Balanced and expressive, this sake features gentle aromas with a harmonious balance of sweetness and acidity. The character of Tamasakae rice comes through clearly, showing layered umami, sweetness, and subtle bitterness, finishing crisp and clean.
Te to Te Junmai Ginjo Ginfubuki Nama
Light, clean, and crisp in style, this sake is the driest of the three. It offers a gentle fruity aroma with a smooth and easy-drinking character. Made with carefully selected Ginfubuki rice from Shiga Prefecture, it delivers a refreshing clarity and refined balance that appeals to both sake lovers and newcomers.
Wakamusume Junmai Ginjo Botan
Crisp and dry, this sake works beautifully alongside food. It complements umami-rich, roasted meats and savoury flavours, and also suits more casual occasions such as sharing pizza or other home-party style main dishes. It’s a versatile sake that keeps the meal flowing smoothly.
Tropical Bun Bun
This summer-exclusive sake is brewed with a tropical theme, featuring vibrant aromas of pineapple and lychee. Despite its low alcohol content, it maintains the rich depth characteristic of Wakamusume. A bright acidity adds a refreshing, crisp finish, making it perfect for warm days.
Shisora Snow Label
Named "Snow Label" after the beautiful white heart of the rice grain, reminiscent of snow atop a mountain peak, this sake made with Miyama Nishiki rice offers a soft, juicy aroma and gentle sweetness. A refreshing touch of umami and delicate acidity harmonise for a smooth, light finish.
Dainagawa Cheese Label
Being unpasteurised, this sake has a freshness and slight effervescence that makes this pairing pop! It has a fresh fruity, floral aroma, a gentle mouthfeel, with the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity; leaving a refreshing aftertaste.
Akanesasu BIO Junmai Ginjo
Well balanced with umami and subtle acidity, with a beautiful fruity aroma. Made with locally grown rice from the brewery’s own farm in Nagano using organic fertilizers. This is a namazume sake, pasteurised only once to keep a fresh and lively character. Best enjoyed in a wine glass.
How to Serve Nama Sake
Nama sake shines when served properly chilled, around 5–10°C.
Keeping it cold protects its delicate character and highlights its brightness and texture. Because Nama is unpasteurised, it is always stored refrigerated to preserve that lively expression.
That immediacy is exactly what makes it special.
Explore More
Unlike pasteurised sake, Nama is designed to be enjoyed fresh. Its appeal lies in that clean, vibrant character that feels closer to the brewing process itself.
Explore the full chilled collection and discover which style fits your table this month.
